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Shoe Style Tips :: Merrill Shoes
Merrill Shoes: A Review of Merrill Trail Runner Shoes
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Merrill shoes – if you’re a trail runner or outdoors’ enthusiast, you know the brand name. It’s a company known for its high-impact running shoes designed for rough trails and much-needed ankle support.
If you’re looking for a new pair of trail runners or hiking boot hybrids, keep reading for a review of some of the top selling Merrill shoe models:
The Merrill Red Desert Shoe ($95-$105)
This shoe, like many quality hiking boots, has a Vibram sole and a tough leather upper equipped to withstand the rigors of the trail. But like an athletic shoe, it is surprisingly light and the midsole is well-cushioned to absorb constant pounding.
The Merrill Pursuit Ventilator Shoe ($80-$100)
The Ventilator, while still a bit narrow, has a better overall fit than we've seen in past Pursuit models. If you’ve got a wide foot though – this isn’t the shoe for you.
Perfect for summer, this shoe features breathable mesh and sockliner vents for greater breathability. The arch of the Ventilator is reinforced with a plastic bridge for added stability and enhanced heel-to-forefoot transition.
The outsole is made of a tough Vibram rubber that's designed for improved traction in dry, sandy conditions. The shoe is a good choice for heavy heel-strikers or those runners with normal arches who split their time between the road and trail.
Merrill Shoes Pursuit Shield Trail Shoe ($100-$110)
Another Pursuit model and another narrow fit – again, if you have wider feet, these aren’t the shoes for you. The Shield is a trail-specific shoe, built especially for bigger runners or those who enjoy running on steep, rutted, rock-strewn trails.
The Shield is super firm, so you can expect plenty of support. The midsole is made of two different types of EVA foam: a softer one for impact protection and a firmer one, running the perimeter of the midsole, for added support.
There is also a plastic footbridge under the arch that extends into the inner forefoot and is intended to enhance stability and help with the transition from heel-strike to toe-off.
Merrill Solo Shoe ($85-$95)
More of a hiking or walking shoe than a trail runner, the Solo has a special liner to transport inner moisture to the outside. There is also a strip of rubber, called a rand that wraps completely around the shoe. This increases the structural integrity and protects your foot from harsh terrain.
The construction is the kind you'd find in the best hiking boots (the midsole and rubber rand form an integrated unit), so this shoe gives great stability and traction on tough terrains. One major drawback is the weight – these Merrill shoes are substantial and you’re going to feel it after a long day on your feet.
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ShoeStyleTips.com :: Merrill Shoes