Ronhill’s re‑entry into serious trail and fell running footwear with the Freedom Ultra and Reverence models has shifted many conversations in the UK fell‑running community. These shoes resonate strongly on rugged British hillsides and the Freedom Ultra, in particular, is catching on among alpine trail lovers.
Roots in Fell Running
Ronhill, originally founded by Dr Ron Hill—legendary marathoner and textile innovator—has deep running heritage. Its modern trail line was spearheaded by Harry Bolton, a British fell‑running engineer and racer who brought serious mountain insight into the design process and the Reverence and Freedom Ultra models were tested extensively on the roughest Lake District terrain, giving them a true fell‑running DNA.
The Reverence: Rugged Mountain Master
Originally released as Ronhill’s hardcore mountain shoe, the Reverence leans into protection and grip.
Upper: Kevlar‑reinforced MATRYX fabric with wrap‑over lacing and sturdy heel cup gives excellent lockdown.
Midsole: Dual‑density Duo‑Pro EVA (soft over firmer core) strikes balance between comfort and stability.
Outsole: Michelin OCX3 compound, 7 mm lugs—grips wet rock and mud like stalactites.
Fit: True‑Fit last offers generous space, especially in toebox, making it popular among wide‑footed fell runners.
Fell Runing Scene Verdict
Northern Fell SRC tester notes the shoe “trusts you” on steep technical descents and stays clean in mud.
Believe in the Run called it “exceptional grip… designed to withstand whatever the trail threw their way”.
On Reddit, one fell‑runner observed its standout mud‑handling but questioned ankle stability:
“they are very unstable on the ankles and I am regularly going over on them”.
This suggests while Reverence excels in protection, the bulkier sole may feel clunky and slightly tippy for ultra‑tech terrain or quick transitions.
The Freedom Ultra: Agile and Alpine‑Ready
The Freedom Ultra is Ronhill’s sprint‑friendly evolution—light, responsive, and subtly rugged.
Upper: MATRYX EVO with Kevlar midfoot, knitted collar and tongue offer durability and a snug fit.
Midsole: Michelin Super‑Critical EVA with rocker geometry; testers say it’s nimble and efficient.
Outsole: Michelin OC1 compound with 4 mm lugs—grippy but more agile on mixed trails.
Spec: ~270 g (UK 8), 5 mm drop, True‑Fit last delivers precise yet roomy comfort.
Fell and Alpine Feedback
In multi‑tester review, pros cited as “light, responsive, secure, durable, traction, unique look/style”. Concerns included a collar that lacks snugness and midsole that’s “firm, bordering on hard”
Run4It and Run4IT highlight excellent energy return via rocker geometry, and strong grip on many terrain types.
Redditor observations: Good for wet/flat fells, low drop appreciated—but “less performance on wet bedrock”.
Why it works in alpine terrain:
At ~270 g, it’s light for carrying through long ascents.
Firm yet rocker‑shaped midsole encourages forward momentum.
Michelin outsole is grippy enough for alpine scree, yet quick on hardpack.
Foot‑shaped last and flexible design support long lateral ridges and descending pitches.
Reverence vs Freedom Ultra
| Feature | Reverence | Freedom Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~320 g (UK 8) | ~270 g (UK 8) |
| Lugs / Traction | 7 mm, aggressive, OCX3 | 4 mm, mixed‑terrain, OC1 |
| Ride Feel | Protective, stable, firm | Snappier, smoother, efficient |
| Upper Fit | Roomy, secure, rugged | Precise, matt-knit, race ready |
| Best Terrain | Technical rock, mud & steep | Alpines, long trails, mixed rides |
Reverence: Heavier, may feel stiff and slightly unstable on narrow ridges.
Freedom Ultra: Midsole may feel too firm for those seeking cushioning on long descents; collar slip reported.
Sizing: Both run true to size, with wider forefoot fit.
Comments and test on the web on sites such as Reddit are positive. Examples being “When I need high traction… I’d much rather have a high‑traction outsole at the expense of durability” and “I’m finding them really good in the wet and muddy fells”
These comments reflect adoption of both models across varying use cases, while room for improvement where made in comments around fit and tech terrain stability are also noted.
Ronhill shoes Shine on Alpine Trails
Born in the Lakes – Designed with direct input from fell‑running pros; real‑world testing in British mountains ensures fit and durability.
Kevlar toughness – Upper materials resist rock scuffs and retain structure even after long runs .
Michelin traction – Both OCX3 and OC1 compounds handle wet schist, slate, and scree confidently .
Fit for technical ridge lines – True‑Fit last and rocker midsoles support both wide-set footing and long crestlines without fatigue.
Dual mind-set – Reverence offers rugged security for technical legs; Freedom Ultra brings efficient propulsion for mixed/faster alpine routes.
The Freedom Ultra emerges as Ronhill’s flagship alpine performer—light, precise, and grippy—already earning earning respect and solid traction in UK fell‑running and mountain circles. It’s a competitive choice for long runs, ridge hops, and fast approaches in alpine terrain.
For those tackling skyraces or muddy climbs, the Reverence remains a formidable all‑rounder: protective, high‑traction, and built to withstand Britain’s foulest conditions.
Whichever direction you go, the it is clear: Ronhill is back with trail running shoes for British fells to Alpine ridge lines.
