Athletic Free Wave Hazy IPA Review
The Athletic can I would start with if you like hazy IPA, citrus, and a softer hop profile.
Athletic Free Wave is probably the Athletic can I would hand to someone who drinks hazy IPA and wants the non-alcoholic version to taste like more than a compromise.
It leans into citrus, tropical fruit, and a softer body. It does not have the sharpest finish in Athletic’s lineup, and it is not the beer I would choose if you want a dry West Coast-style bite. But if your normal beer order is hazy IPA, Free Wave is the can that makes the most sense.
Where to buy
I would compare price and availability before buying a full pack. ProofNoMore is good for trying Athletic alongside other NA beers; Amazon may be easier for multi-packs.
What it tastes like
Free Wave is the fruitier Athletic IPA. Expect citrus, some tropical character, and a rounder sip than Run Wild. The bitterness is there, but it is not the first thing I notice.
That makes it a good can for people who want NA beer to scratch the craft-beer itch without tasting harsh. It also means drinkers who want a dry finish may prefer Run Wild.
When I would buy it
I would buy Free Wave for takeout, burgers, spicy food, pizza, backyard food, or any night when a hazy IPA would normally sound right. It is also one of the better first cans for someone who is skeptical of NA beer but still likes modern craft beer.
It is not the can I would pick for someone who only drinks pilsner, lager, or very crisp beer. Free Wave has more body and fruit than that.
Free Wave vs Run Wild
Free Wave is softer and juicier. Run Wild is drier and more bitter.
If you like hazy IPA, start with Free Wave. If you miss a more classic IPA finish, start with Run Wild. If you are buying Athletic for the first time and do not know which side you are on, get both and compare them cold with food. That comparison teaches you more than reading another paragraph of tasting notes.
Bottom line
Athletic Free Wave is one of the better NA hazy IPAs to try first. It is not the crispest Athletic beer, but it is the can I would buy for citrus, fruit, softness, and a craft-beer taste that still works without alcohol.