Practical and on trend: Merrell hiking shoes are what you should be buying
Updated
9Product Reviews
There's no doubt that comfort has become more of a priority for us since the days of the pandemic, and some of us like to take it to the extreme. Shoes (and clothes) that are designed to keep us comfy, stable and protected on hiking trails have become our go-to for everyday wear, which is where Merrell enters the chat.
The hiking shoe brand is still very popular among outdoorsy types, but as the lines between the trail and the city streets blur, we're seeing more and more of Merrell out in the regular world.
So, here's why you shouldn't sleep on a pair of Merrell shoes.
What is Merrell?
Merrell is a popular hiking shoe brand that's been around for decades. The first Merrell shoe was released in 1982, and since then, the brand has expanded to create more shoe models, plus everything you might need to wear on a hiking trip.
The Merrell Siren 4 Hiking Shoes. 9Product Reviews
Designed to support your feet while traipsing through nature, Merrell shoes are exceedingly comfy. And while you might not think to prioritise a comfy shoe while just out and about on your weekend, the GORPcore trend has seen a spike in Merrell's popularity.
What is GORPcore?
GORP is an acronym for 'good ol' raisins and peanuts', which is what hikers would say to refer to trail mix. The saying has been appropriated for the trend, which involves wearing your best (and often expensive) outdoor gear on a regular basis – think Patagonia, Columbia, The North Face, Teva or Salomons.
READ MORE: I've hiked over 90km in one pair of Salomons
The trend took off for celebrities post-pandemic, when comfort became more of a priority than before. Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner were spotted in puffers from The North Face, while Mary Kate Olsen stepped out in a pair of Teva sandals. Julia Fox wore the Merrell Hydro Moc clogs for an entire summer.
The sandal spotted on Julia Fox. 9Product Reviews
While the focus of the Merrell shoe will remain to be comfort, its bulky, supportive design is also in vogue.
Are Merrell shoes good for walking?
Merrell shoes are designed for hiking, so you can trust they're good for walking.
Some hikers have written that Merrell shoes can be heavy, so on long, multiple-night treks, they may opt for something lighter. However, a Merrell shoe might be your best friend for a day of walking, whether it's on city asphalt or the rock-laden path of your favourite hike.
The midsole of Merrell shoes is what gives them support, rather than the collar, as some tend to think. So, don't opt for a high-collar Merrell shoe to get ankle support – it's all about the contents of the shoe.
The Merrell range
Merrell has a range of hiking and adventure shoes, including boots, sneaker styles, and clogs. Many of them are currently discounted due to mid-season sales.
Merrell Moab 3 (Gore-Tex) Hiking Shoes
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One of the bestselling hiking shoes worldwide, the Moab has been a popular member of the Merrell collection for years now. Now in its third iteration, the Moab 3 has a more supportive insole, a more cushioned midsole, and a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane for hiking in any weather conditions. They also have a Vibram outsole, which is Merrell's high-performing rubber material designed for durability and stability as you hike.
Another standout feature is their Kinetic Fit Advanced removable contoured insole, which has reinforced heel cushioning for those who need it.
You can also get the Moab in a 'Mid' design, which looks more like a hiking boot.
Moab 3 Mid Tactical (Waterproof) and Moab 3 Mid (Gore-Tex)
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Merrell Siren 4 Traveller Shoes
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Another hiking shoe option, the Siren shoe is designed specifically for women's feet. Designed with a focus on durability and agility, they keep your feed stable and comfortable while you take to the trails. The the Siren shoe has a Vibram TC5+ outsole (formulated exclusively for Merrell shoes) for the best possible traction, an abrasion-resistant rubber toe cap for protecting your feet, and a recycled mesh lining and footbed cover for ultimate breathability.
Merrell Fly Strike Shoes
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Designed for trail running, the Merrell Fly Strike Shoe is made for speed. It has an abrasion-resistant upper that works best for hard-packed and paved trails, so make sure you're aware of the trail conditions before you run out in these.
When it comes to comfort, the Merrell Fly Strike has a lightweight, high-rebound EVA foam midsole for stability and ongoing comfort during your runs, plus a breathable mesh upper that'll keep your feet aerated. The
Merrell Vapor Glove 6 Shoes
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Designed to mimic the bare human foot, the Vapor Glove 6 shoe is part of Merrell's 'barefoot' range. Made for Vapor Glove 6 shoe, they're incredibly minimal, with a breathable mesh upper and a Vibram EcoStep outsole that provides superior grip and connection as you move through the trail.
Merrell Hydro Moc Clogs
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The bold clog that was spotted on Julia Fox, the Hydro Moc is designed for days spent in and around the water. An easy slip-on design that can protect you from sharp rocks or slippery gravel, it has a contoured arch for support and a heel strap to keep it secured.
Usually $79.99, you can get both the men's and women's pairs for just $39.99 now.
READ MORE: Shop stylish boots that will see you through winter and beyond