10 Best Merrell Running Shoes Reviewed & Tested
By Brian Price
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Merrell has been producing quality outdoor footwear for quite a while now. They were among the first to the barefoot game, and seem to always find new ways to make an even better version of a hiking boot or trail running shoe.
We decided to search around and make a list of the best running shoes from Merrell, from the road to the trail. This buying guide focuses on key points, as well as some customer feedback about the top 10 selections that this company currently has to offer, for those runners that like to take their game off-road once in awhile.
Our Top 3 Picks
From minimalistic designs for the barefoot enthusiast. to more aggressive treads that will help conquer those rougher trails, let’s get right into it and take a look at what we’ve come up with.
10 Best Merrell Running Shoes
1. All Out Crush
There were only a very few number of runners who did not like the comfort level of these running shoes. To most runners they are quite lightweight, comfortable, and extremely flexible. They are well ventilated allowing your feet to breathe easily while you run, The Uni Fly technology provides cushioning, and its gusseted tongue provides a secure fit.
Durability / Quality
The TPU cage pattern makes the upper quite durable, and there seem to be just a few complaints of the durability of the outsole. This is a durable and quality made running shoe that will last a long time.
Protection
When running on trails you'll need a good amount of protection from different types of terrain. This running shoe drains water quickly, has a
TrailProtect pad that provides protection, and its toe cap provides protection as well.
Cost or Value
Most trail running shoes tend to run on the expensive side because of the extra features involved. This one is no exception, but you will get your money's worth, and may be able to find them cheaper on Amazon.
Merrell Select Grip provides great Traction
Drains water quickly
Lightweight & comfortable
Extremely flexible
Well Ventilated
TPU cage pattern makes the upper quite durable
Uni Fly provides cushioning
Gusseted tongue provides a secure fit
TrailProtect pad provides protection
Toe cap provides protection
Some had issues with getting dirt in the shoe
Some were not satisfied with the amount of cushioning
2. Trail Glove 3
The all-around synthetic fabric gives your feet a very smooth feeling. The ‘Omni-Fit lacing system’ is extremely lightweight and in turn helps you in running miles after miles.
Quality/Durability:
The high-quality rubber sole can be the ultimate quality assurance of the durability of any running shoe. The Merrell Trail Glove 3 minimal trail running shoe is proudly one of them.
Price:
You may call it a little bit overpriced, but, while bringing into consideration the specifications like Omni-Fit lacing system, pure rubber sole, 10.5 mm stack height, what you pay for it you may not regret it.
Omni-Fit lacing system allows a secure fit in the move
Seamless upper gets additional support
Lightweight and minimalistic design
Suitable for both the road and trail
Fits like a glove, hence the name
More toe room than previous versions
Vibram outsole is highly durable
Highly Breathable
Has great traction
Extremely flexible
Trail protect plate protects against rough terrain
CMEVA helps absorb shock
TPU Rear Foot Sling supports the heel
The wedge under the arch is a bit uncomfortable to some
Some wished the underfoot provided more comfort
3. All Out Peak
There were a few runners that suggested the shoe runs a bit narrow in size, otherwise most agree this is a highly comfortable and stable running shoe. This is a highly Breathable running shoe that keeps sweat away. It has reflective components that allows others to see you easily while you run. Its HyperWrap 360 Degree Fit System provides stability, its Uni-Fly midsole absorbs shock when your feet hit the ground, its Air cushion on the heel provides comfort, and its Nylon arch shank provides flexibility.
Durability / Quality
A very slim amount of runners thought the durability of the outsole should of lasted longer. The Megagrip Outsole has great traction and according to most is quite durable and made with quality materials.
Protection
The All Out Peak has TrailProtect technology that provides great protection to your feet when running on rough terrain. It is also great on wet and dry surfaces.
Cost or Value
Trail running shoes are typically higher priced, because of the added protection they provide your feet. We think it'll be worth every penny.
Highly Breathable
Reflective components allows others to see you easily
HyperWrap 360 Degree Fit System provides stability
TrailProtect technology provides great protection
Megagrip Outsole has great traction
Great on wet and dry surfaces
Uni-Fly midsole absorbs shock
Air cushion on heel provides comfort
Nylon arch shank provides flexibility
Sizes run narrow
May be seen as expensive
4. Bare Access Arc 4
In the long checklist of comforting features, the Breathable mesh lining comes in at the top. Next in the list comes its 2mm lug depth followed by the Integrated EVA footbed. Although a few runners did not like the new arch support and extra cushioning of this shoe most were quite satisfied with the comfort level.
Quality/Durability:
Most of its satisfied users have expressed that the overall durability has surprised them and is up to par with a level they are very satisfied with.
Cost or Value
The price is unbelievably low in consideration of the features which have been included with these shoes.
The one piece mesh upper has a pretty good amount of airflow
Non-stitched overlays run directly to the laces
There is a good amount of cushioning, even for this minimalistic design
Pretty good marks on durability
Reflective components
Highly Breathable
EVA midsole provides stability
Affordable
Some aren't crazy about the new arch support
Sizes may run small
May take some time to wear in
5. All Out Charge
The synthetic textile gives your feet a very smooth feeling. The synthetic upper sole gives you comfort while the mesh liner protects your feet from displacement, slip and vaporising. The removable footbed is another feature for the orthotics. The Hyperwrap 360 degrees fit system keeps the foot in place even in vigorous sweating.
Protection:
The All Out Charge is more versatile, very rugged, and protective than many of the past models. It is a running shoe that assists in finding a lot of sweet spots. It will be great for traditional runners and minimalist runners. You'll dig into the ground with the protection of the lugs. The Unifly midsole will help to absorb shock which will protect your feel when they hit the ground.
Quality/Durability:
Along with proving a superior grip for the feet, the Hyperwrap 360 degrees fit system increases the durability of the shoe too. The proportionate combination of 6 mm drop, 12 mm heel cush, and 27 mm of heel stack height supports the feet all the while increasing the durability of them.
Cost or Value
The price of trail running shoes in general can be quite pricey because you get extra protection where you need it.
Hyperwrap 360 degrees fit system provides support
Several different colors to choose from
The removable footbed allows the addition of custom orthotics
Reflective detailing for safety
Added cushioning provides comfort
Gives you great take-offs
5mm multi-directional lugs provide great traction
UniFly midsole provides great responsiveness
Highly breathable
They seem to run a little narrow
Sizes run small
May be seen as expensive
6. Bare Access Ultra
The fine fabric and synthetic sole of the shoe will have your feet feeling as if they are getting the quality that they deserve. The 0mm heel-to-toe drop incorporated alongside a bunch of delicate features like the ‘no-sew protective toe’, upper mesh and last but not the least ‘side overlays’, may just leave you with just one word: ‘perfect’!
Quality/Durability:
M BOUND+ energy-returning technology in the midsole pampers you with unmatched durability and protection. Next, still on the subject of durability, the Breathable mesh lining is something you just can’t ignore.
Cost or Value
The price of this shoe range fits in the common price range of its contemporary models. From users’ overwhelming response, it is evident that hardly any buyers have any regret for their decision with spending the money for these shoes.
M BOUND+ technology in the midsole offers good energy return
The sticky Vibram outsole grips various types of terrain
The seamless upper is breathable and free of internal irritation points
Zero drop platform
Strobel Last provides comfort to underfoot
Serious minimalist runners felt that the soles on these were a little too thick
Can be seen as expensive
7. Moab Gore-Tex
Most runners appreciated the comfort of this running shoe. This is a highly breathable running shoe that has an Air Cushion® midsole to absorbs shock when your feet hit the ground. Its Gore-Tex Extended Comfort on your run, and its M Select Fresh prevents odor of your feet.
Durability / Quality
While there were a few complaints of the upper mesh not being quite as durable as some wishes, the outsole of this running shoe is highly durable. Its Vibram® Multi-Sport Plus provides great traction, and its lugs assist with grip.
Protection
Most were quite satisfied with the waterproof feature of this running shoe. It also has a Bellowed tongue to keep debris out.
Cost or value
It does run a bit on the pricey side, but if its a waterproof trail runner that you seek you'll be quite satisfied.
Waterproof
Highly Breathable
Vibram® Multi-Sport Plus provides great traction
Air Cushion® midsole absorbs shock
Highly durable
Gore-Tex Extended Comfort
Bellows tongue keeps debris out
M Select Fresh prevents odor
Some had issues with the durability of the upper
Sizes run small
Laces don't stay tied
8. Pace Glove 3
First and foremost, the all round synthetic sole and fine fabric gives you a smooth and comfortable feeling in association with highly breathable mesh and padded collar. The ‘Omni-Fit lacing system’ efficiently keeps your feet tightly gripped without any harsh feeling. Considering the next thing in comfort, the mesh liner is the perfect inclusion as it undoubtedly keeps your feet free from sweat and temperature build-up inside the shoe.
Quality/Durability:
This is a highly durable running shoe made with quality materials that will last a long time.
Protection:
The ‘TrailProtect pad’ is the new addition in this Merrell running shoe model that protects the underfoot excellently from any kind of external injury and sudden shock.
Cost or Value
Although very few of its users have complained about this model of running shoe being overpriced but, most of them have admitted that the features that have been included in the price are quite not so bad in spending for.
The Omni-Fit lacing system ensures a secure and confident fit
TrailProtect pad provides underfoot protection over various types of terrain
The lightweight, breathable mesh
Upper non-stitched overlays for added support and durability
Very Flexible
Vibram TC 1 outsole is highly durable
CMEVA provides cushioning
The sizing seems to be a bit off
Some thought it could be more snug
Sizes may run small
9. All Out Terra
Its synthetic linen texture, exclusive quality rubber sole, highly breathable mesh and thermoplastic polyurethane upper sole assure you the best of comfort and stability you can expect from any running shoe.
Removable footbed for the orthotics, a proportionate combination of 24 millimetres of stack height, 16 millimetre Cush and 6 millimetre Drop.
Quality/Durability:
Most runners were quite satisfied with this bootie style running shoe and agreed it was quite durable and made with quality materials.
Protection:
The TrailProtect pad for superior protection is surely enough to have longed for the delivery date.
Cost or Value
Most trail runners are on the expensive side because of the additional features they provide to protect your feet while you run. This one is no exception, but will be worth every penny.
Fairly aggressive tread performs well off-road
The removable insole allows the use of custom orthotics
The Mesh and Thermoplastic Polyurethane upper allows decent airflow
Reflective components allow others to see you easily
Roomy toe box
Underfoot protection is provided by TrailProtect Pad
Highly durable
UniFly midsole absorbs shock
Bootie-style construction keeps debris out
Some expected the collar to fit a little tighter
Sizes run big
May be seen as expensive
10. Vapor Glove 2
The premium quality rubber sole offers the feet and extremely comfortable and cosy feeling. The lace-up vamp along with the pull-tab at the counter are nice additions for the low profile trail runner!
Quality/Durability:
The Vibram outsole offers a significant benefit in it’s traction, and is accompanied by an exceptionally durable insole.
Protection:
It has good toe protection from debris. The upper is constructed to withstand rocks and other sharp objects.
Cost or Value
It’s not very easy to find a reliable runner who does not find the every penny spent on the Vapor Glove 2 worth it.
Excellent ground contact
Soft microfiber footbed for comfort
A true minimalist design
Good toe protection against debris
Highly breathable
M Select FRESH odor-wicking technology keeps odor away
Highly durable
CMEVA provides cushioning
Rear Foot Sling supports the heel
Some durability issues with the toe area of the shoe's upper
Sizes may run large
Some thought the responsiveness of the shoe could be better
We really hope that this buying guide was helpful to your search. Remember, there is a wide variety of shoes to choose from. The trick is to weigh your needs and practical uses to find the best possible pair for you.
The Criteria We Used For Our Evaluation Of the Best Merrell Running Shoes
We spend hours, days, and even weeks researching reviews from runners all over the world to provide you with the most accurate top 10 list. Below is some of the criteria we use when deciding which shoes will make our top 10:
Flickr: terren in Virginia
Protection
If you are looking at Merrell’s you’re most likely in the need of a trail running shoe. The most important thing a trail running shoe can provide is protection. We will let you know how much or little protection is provided with each of these top 10 running shoes. Do they fair well against sharp rocks? Can they withstand water? Those are just a few of the features we look at when deciding which will go in our top 10.
Comfort
Comfort is always important. No one wants to run in uncomfortable shoes that cause pain or blisters. We will let you know how much cushioning is provided, and if other runners thought the shoe to be comfortable.
Weight
Trail running shoes can run a bit on the heavy side due to their extra added features to protect you on your run. We will let you know if they are too heavy, lightweight, or just right.
Traction
If you are running on trails you’ll want a running shoe that has amazing grip. We will let you know what type of traction and grip to expect from the running shoe.
Breathable
No one wants sweaty feet. We’ve heard the runners reviews and let you know if they think they are well ventilated or could use better airflow.
Durable
A good pair of running shoes should last between 400 and 600 miles. We want you to know if these shoes meet that criteria as far as durability goes, or if they will likely wear earlier or last even longer.
Other Important Factors To Consider When Selecting The Best Merrell Running Shoes
Flickr: edge balino
With over 30 years of experience in manufacturing outdoor equipment, Merrell is, without a doubt, a leader in the market.
The company started designing and manufacturing handmade custom boots for outdoor enthusiasts over three decades ago, with the time their products have been recognized as the best in the market of outdoor equipment, specially its hiking boots.
The brand follows four core concepts when it comes to manufacture quality products: comfort, design, durability and versatility. You will find that Merrell’s running shoes integrate successfully at a high level of comfort and durability while maintaining a great design that gives them a great feel. As the brand focuses on multi-sport technology, the running shoes fit a wide variety of people, for a wide variety of adventures.
Purpose:
As Merrell offers wide versatility, you will need to think first if you want to have long or short runs, the terrain where you plan to run and the kind of grip you need to have to make your experience the best.
Have in mind that in order to get the best ventilation, grip, comfort and stability from your shoes, you have to be conscious of the conditions of the environment you want to run in. Merrell has plenty of options you can choose from, versatility is one of the core values of their products.
Environment:
Depending on the surface, the climate and the length of your run, you can choose the perfect pair of trainers. The technology used my Merrell can provide you with he best quality products for a wide variety of adventures. You may need waterproof trainers if you live in a rainy place or if the season is wet. You may need greater grip and stability if you are planning to run on off-road trails.
Personal Level:
Merrell offers different technologies so you can connect your feet to the terrain, they offer three categories to choose from: cushioning, minimal and barefoot. Depending on your preferences, you can pick you pair of trainers from a wide variety of styles within each category. For example, the All Out Charge trainers, make part of the Cushioning selection, The Bare Access trainers are part of the Minimal selection, and the Trail Glove trainers are part of the Barefoot selection.
Style:
Merrell offers a wide variety of colors and styles of trainers for different purposes and with different technologies. They design their shoes for men, women and children. They are specialists on bringing the best performance in every product.
Know Your Feet:
This is the most important part to consider. In order to run comfortably, efficiently, and most of all safely, you have got to know what works best for your feet. If you over-pronate, underpronate, have flat feet or high arches, if your feet are wide or narrow, these are the things that you have to understand and know how to take care of.
For the different levels of pronation, you’ll need the right kind of support. Sometimes the model with the right support may not meet your style expectations, but that when you have to think about whether it is better to wear the hottest styles, or support and possibly correct a condition that can potentially become a problem.
And, the same thought should go into picking shoes for high arches or flat feet. you don’t want something that doesn’t offer enough support, or something that has too much.
What if you happen to have wide or even narrow feet? You will want to choose a brand and model which has sizing that works for you. These are all things which are important to think about, especially if you intend to puts some miles on them.
To further help in your search for the best pair of running shoes, we have also put together some frequently asked questions that may help you spark some considerations of your own.
FAQ
Q: What is pronation? Should I consider it when buying running fashion shoes?
A: Pronation is the rolling motion that absorbs the effect of landing on the outside of your heel as your feet hit the ground. That’s why pronation is essential in helping you balance your walk and run. Considering your pronation is very important for runners as it helps their performance, but it doesn’t mean it’s not important when you buy any kind of shoes, being aware of your walk and run pattern helps you making the best decision when you are looking for comfortable shoes.
Q: What is the difference between the cushioning, minimal and barefoot lines?
A: The Cushioning line provides a deeper drop (8-12mm) for intense runs where you need more resilient cushioning. The Minimal line provides medium drop (0-8mm) helping you have more connection to the ground, those are the trainers you use if you don’t do intense runs but want to keep the stability. The Barefoot line provides 0mm drop providing full foot contact with the ground in a lightweight, but sturdy design. The Barefoot line is the minimalist line of Merrell.
Q: How slip resistant Merrell shoes work?
A: Merrell design their shoes with the right weight, correct ventilation and appropriate ankle support for each type of trail and level of activity. The slip resistant technology starts working with the outsole. The brand offers the M-Select™ GRIP traction outsoles with specialized lugs that release dirt and debris or the trusted technology of high-performance rubber soles from Vibram®.
Q: Is Vibram part of Merrell?
A: Vibram is one of the industries that has the leadership of, and commitment to, the performance hiking, running and mountaineering. Vibram partner with Merrell bringing together one of the highest performances of rubber soles in the industry.
Q: How do I know what size to wear if the footwear isn’t available in a half size?
A: Merrell recommends sizing up to the next whole size. However, every person does fit differently when it comes to shoes. If you are buying your shoes online, Merrell offers free exchanges and easy returns.
Here are some sources we used while conducting our Research:
Sources
- , Our Story, Running shoe company,
- , Take the Wet Test: Learn Your Foot Type, Running site, Jan 22, 2016
- , What is Pronation and Supination?, Stretching site,
- , Barefoot / Minimalist Running Shoes: How to Choose, Feb 12, 2016
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