Five Ten Freerider High
My Favorite Riding Shoes
Words & Photos by Drew Rohde
I’ve always been a fan of high tops. More than just a style choice, I find that high tops offer far more advantages than not. Five Ten’s Freerider Highs replaced the old Impact high tops I’d been wearing since… I can’t remember. I still wear the Impacts for trips to the bike park, but have found the slightly slimmer and more breathable Freerider Highs to be the ultimate aggressive trail riding flat shoe.
The Lab
Starting at the outsole, the Freerider shoes feature Five Ten’s famous S1 rubber in the classic Dotty tread pattern. There is a one-piece molded cupsole and a suede and mesh upper.
I do have one upgrade I highly suggest for any riding shoe. After several months I inserted an SQ Lab aftermarket insole and noticed a major increase in comfort. It also increased the amount of time my feet could go without feeling tired on long descents.
The Dirt
There have been lots of grumbles online from people who have had Five Ten shoes fall apart quickly, but that has not been the case with my first or second pair of Freerider Highs. The pair tested here has been on my feet for over a year of use. I’ve taken them on everything from muddy rides in the PNW to the Arizona desert, and pedaled trails everywhere in between.
For those with free and liberal ankles, the confinement may feel like a straight jacket in a swimming pool, but if you’ve got ankle injuries, the support is very welcome. With a couple bone breaks and nagging ligament issues, high tops have become a way to ride without the constant threat of re-injury.
Traction and performance are as to be expected from any Dotty-patterned S1-equipped Five Ten shoe. The Freeriders are a double threat as they can quickly go from a good-looking casual shoe to capable trail performer.
The Wolf’s Last Word
Beyond joint support, one of my other favorite benefits of the high tops is the reduction in crap collected in my shoes. The higher, snug collar reduces roost, shralpage and any other radical byproducts from entering the top of your shoe and distracting you from the good times ahead. They are a bit warm and thick if you’re used to low tops or XC slippers, but if you are looking for a secure, comfortable and stylish shoe that will perform and last, I highly recommend the Freerider Highs (or low tops if you prefer). I just got another new set to replace this trusty pair after a hard 16 months of service. I look forward to all the trails we’ll ride together.
Price: $120
Website: fiveten.com
Disclosure: Our team selects all of the products we review and do so with honesty and objectivity in mind. Some of the products we receive come directly from Competitive Cyclist, who also value our readers and have offered them a 15% discount (exclusions apply) on their first purchase by using LOAMWOLF15. Through this program we may also receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support, TLW.
Leave A Comment & Win Free Schwag
Want to win some free schwag? Leave a comment and vote up the most thoughtful comments and each month we’ll pick a winner. The person with the smartest and most helpful replies will earn some sweet new gear. Join the Pack