Adidas is a German multinational company that has been producing high quality footwear and outdoor gear since 1949. Following a family feud with his older brother Rudolf who founded Puma, Adolf Dassler started Adidas and the brothers quickly became rivals in business. Ironically, both Puma and Adidas are still headquartered in the same German town of Herzogenaurach. Adidas however, is currently the largest sportswear company in Europe and 2nd largest in the world. I grew up playing soccer and have lived in Germany for a few years. So I’ve been rocking this brand since I was 4 or 5 years old. Adidas was king then and remains atop the market currently providing equipment for several top-tier professional sports teams. As the company branches into outerwear, I had the opportunity to take a look at a pair of hiking pants. The Adidas Flex Hike.
Constructed with 4 way stretch Nylon material, these pants excel at conforming to a body in motion. Additionally, a gusseted crotch and articulated knees affords freedom of movement while pursuing various activities. Some activities may even require you to cinch the leg openings closed. Fortunately, Adidas has included a snapped adjustable cuff. In addition to comfortable vented front hand pockets and a pair of velcro back pockets, Adidas added a zippered leg pocket. Perfect for securing a map while on the trail. These lightweight pants are a great 3 season option offering UPF 50+ sun protection.
Final thoughts: I used these pants on a recent camping trip and found them to perform admirably. The black pants never looked dirty and seemed to be fairly resistant to odor and sweat. In a light rain, the 91% Nylon/ 9% Elastic material did well shedding moisture and dew. I even found a small pocket just below the belt line. Ideal for storing small items like chapstick or keys. It’s the minor details like using an all metal zipper on the leg pocket with zipper hood separates these pants from the standard hiking pant. I’ve always been a fan of Adidas sportswear. And now that they are bringing the Terrex line to the US, I couldn’t be happier.
Adidas Flex Hike Pants features courtesy of adidasoutdoor.com
- Material: 91% Nylon/9% Elastic
- Benefit: Stretch, Sun Protection
- Activity: Hiking
- Pockets: Security leg pocket with zip, 2 hand pockets, 2 back pockets, key pocket
- Adjustable cuffs
- Articulated knees
- Reinforced stitching at stress points
- Gusseted crotch
- MSRP: $79
