Merrell Accentor 3
Pros
- Stellar support
- Amazingly comfortable
- Performs well in the cold
- Can gobble up miles
- Versatile grip for moderate terrain
- Alleviates foot pain
- Fits like a glove
- Roomy and durable toebox
- Very easy to put on
- Budget-friendly
- Sustainably made
Cons
- Lackluster breathability
- Could be lighter
- Unruly laces
Key Features
- Waterproof synthetic, leather, and mesh upper: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Grippy rubber sole: Offers excellent traction on various terrains.
- Breathable mesh lining: Ensures airflow to keep your feet comfortable.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Rubber
- Inner material: Breathable Mesh
The Merrell Accentor 3 is ideally suited for hikers seeking comfort and stability on a budget. Our lab results confirm its supportive yet flexible midsole, complemented by a roomy toebox that accommodates wider feet. Priced at $100 compared to the average $142 for hiking shoes, it stands out as a notable option for an affordable hiking shoe.
The nylon shank in the midsole enhances stability, providing a reliable landing platform during treks. In our flexibility tests, the Accentor 3 exceeded expectations, requiring only 14.0N to flex to **30 degrees**, making it **14.8%** more flexible than average. This feature contributes to a relaxed experience while maintaining necessary support.
We verified the generous interior of the non-tapered toebox using a gel mold, measuring **74.6 mm**, which comfortably fits those with swollen or square-shaped feet, surpassing the **72.5 mm** average. Additionally, it offers significant vertical clearance at **32.3 mm**, enhancing overall comfort.
However, the Merrell Accentor 3 may not be ideal for summer hiking due to heat retention, as indicated by its low breathability score of **1/5** in our smoke test. This could lead to discomfort and potential blisters on warmer days. Overall, while it provides commendable features for various conditions, its breathability could be improved for hot weather use.
ASICS Gel Venture 10
Pros
- Fantastic durability
- Amazing value
- Ideal for beginners
- Softer Amplifoam midsole
- Versatile for trail, travel, casual wear...
- Improved upper
- Plush tongue with pressure-free lacing
- Trail-inspired details at budget price
Cons
- Only for narrow feet
- Heavy
- Low shock absorption and energy return
Key Features
- Mesh upper: Improves breathability while maintaining waterproof capabilities.
- Sockliner production: Utilizes a solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.
- Rearfoot GEL technology: Enhances impact absorption, creating a softer feeling at footstrike.
- AMPLIFOAM cushioning: Provides excellent cushioning for added comfort during longer runs.
- Trail-specific outsole pattern: Optimized for enhanced grip across various terrains.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Synthetic Rubber
- Outer material: Mesh
- Inner material: Polyester
The ASICS Gel Venture 10 is a hiking shoe that is best suited for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts seeking durability and comfort. Priced at only $80, it provides notable wear resistance, contributing to the shoe's long lifespan. Its flexible design enhances comfort during treks, making it a solid option for affordable hiking footwear.
In lab tests, the GV10 exhibited impressive sturdiness across its structure. The toebox sustained minor damage, earning a score of 4/5, while the heel padding remained intact with a maximum score of 5/5. Additionally, the outsole showed only a small 0.6 mm dent compared to the 0.9 mm average, further confirming its protective qualities.
The midsole adapts well to movement, providing ease during relaxed strolls. Our bend test indicated it is 13.7% more pliable than average. Weighing in at a minimal 11.4 oz (322g), it is significantly lighter than the lab average by 15.3%, enhancing its appeal as a lightweight hiking shoe.
However, the shoe offers limited impact protection, reflected in its below-average 105 SA rating. Those who prioritize cushioning and joint protection may want to consider shoes with better shock absorption features. This aspect may be a drawback for some users looking for enhanced comfort on rugged terrain.
Merrell Morphlite
Pros
- Excellent price point
- Versatile across multiple terrains
- Feather-light build
- Eco-conscious recycled materials
- Improved fit vs. previous Merrells
- Works fantastic for heel strikers
- Good arch support
- Well-designed tongue
Cons
- Sparse outsole coverage
- Major durability concerns
- Drop differs too much from stated
- Not for wide feet
Key Features
- Jacquard upper for added durability and breathability
- Internal bootie that provides a locked-in fit, enhancing stability during runs
- 100% recycled breathable mesh lining and mesh footbed cover, contributing to sustainability
- FloatPro Foam midsole offers lightweight comfort that endures throughout your run
- Merrell sticky rubber outsole designed for exceptional grip and traction on varying surfaces
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber for enhanced durability
- Outer material: Mesh for breathability
- Inner material: Mesh ensuring comfort and moisture management
The Merrell Morphlite is a budget-friendly hiking shoe priced at $100, ideal for those seeking significant comfort and durability during outdoor activities. With its premium shock absorption and flexibility packaged in a lightweight design, lab tests indicate that the Morphlite provides all-day comfort.
Upon wearing the Morphlite, its notable comfort is immediately apparent. The shoe features a foam height of 32.2/21.3 mm, providing high impact protection without being overly bulky. Scoring 125 SA in the heel, it effectively reduces stress on muscles and joints with each step.
This shoe's exceptional flexibility allows for easier movement of the foot. In our bend test, the Morphlite demonstrated a pliability that is 30.1% greater than average, contributing to its ease of use during hikes. Additionally, weighing only 8.4 oz (237g), it is 18.0% lighter than the typical hiking shoe, enhancing overall comfort and versatility.
However, one drawback is that the outsole shows signs of wear faster than average, as evidenced by the 1.4 mm damage observed from our Dremel test. The shoe also features exposed foam, which may be susceptible to damage from rough surfaces and sharp rocks. For those concerned about durability, it may be advisable to consider a more robust hiking shoe.
Adidas Terrex AX4
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Feels like a trail running shoe
- Breathable
- Water-repellent
- Excellent grip
- Durable for the price
- Stable platform
- Contains recycled materials
Cons
- Lacks toe protection
- Flimsy insole
- Aggressively tapered toebox
Key Features
- Continental Rubber outsole for superior traction on wet and dry surfaces.
- Dual density EVA midsole provides cushioning and support during long hikes.
- Lining: GORE-TEX Extended Comfort Footwear ensures breathability while keeping your feet dry.
- Sockliner: Molded sockliner enhances comfort and fit, adapting to your foot's shape.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported.
- Sole material: Rubber for enhanced durability.
- Outer material: Leather constructed for rugged use.
- Closure type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
The Adidas Terrex AX4 is a stable and affordable hiking shoe, best suited for hikers seeking reliable support on the trail. Priced at just $90, it offers notable value as it is $22 less than the average cost of summer hiking shoes.
This shoe features an ample midsole that effectively prevents ankle rolls, with measurements of 111.5 mm at the forefoot and 87.9 mm at the heel, placing it around the average width for hiking footwear. The stiff heel counter secures the heel during steep climbs and rough terrain, contributing to its overall stability; in lab tests, it received a stiff rating of 5/5.
Despite a slightly lower stack height, the Terrex AX4 enhances midsole performance. Lab testing showed the midsole registering 39 HA, which is 27% firmer than average, providing both firmness and protection while walking on trails.
However, it should be noted that the Adidas Terrex AX4 lacks flexibility for winter hiking. After simulating winter conditions in a controlled environment, we observed a 66% increase in stiffness compared to room temperature. For those needing a more winter-ready option, consider the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX.
Adidas Terrex Trailmaker
Pros
- Extra lightweight
- Amazing in-shoe comfort
- Highly breathable
- Balance of cushion and ground feel
- Stable for a light shoe
- More flexible than average
- Welcomes wide feet
- Secure lockdown (bootie upper)
Cons
- Outsole lacks durability
- Not enough grip on wet terrain
Key Features
- Waterproof GORE-TEX: Ensures your feet stay dry while allowing moisture to escape.
- Durable Upper: Made from textile and synthetic materials, ensuring rugged performance.
- Continental Rubber Outsole: Offers extraordinary traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
- Mid-Height Cuff: Provides additional ankle support during uneven terrain hikes.
- Lightweight Design: Weighs only 13.4 ounces (size 9), making it easy to wear for extended periods.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Adidas Terrex Trailmaker is an excellent choice for hikers seeking a budget-friendly, lightweight shoe. Designed for those who value agility and durability without compromising on cost, this model stands out in the category of inexpensive hiking footwear.
Weighing just 12.7 oz (361g), the Terrex Trailmaker is lighter than average by 1.2 oz (34g), providing a feeling of freedom and agility during hikes. Users reported retaining energy throughout their treks, thanks to its lightweight design.
Contrary to common assumptions about affordable shoes, the Terrex Trailmaker demonstrates significant durability. After conducting a test using a Dremel on the fabric upper with a force of 3.2N at 5K RPM, we noted only a slight scuff, resulting in a durability rating of 3/5. This shoe effectively withstands rigorous trail conditions with minimal signs of wear.
At a retail price of just $110, the Terrex Trailmaker offers considerable value, being $18 less than the average hiking shoe price. This affordability combined with its performance makes it a notable option for budget-conscious hikers.
However, it is important to note that the Terrex Trailmaker may not be suitable for backpacking. The lack of substantial ankle support and 3 mm less cushioning underfoot can limit its effectiveness for long-distance hikes on technical trails, particularly when carrying heavy loads. Long-distance hikers are advised to consider alternative options.
Merrell Speed Eco
Pros
- Balanced ground feel and impact protection
- Feels lively and responsive underfoot
- Firm and stable platform
- Notably lighter then average
- Highly durable upper mesh
- Affordable price point
- A ton of recycled materials
- Fits true to width
- Doesn't get any firmer in cold
Cons
- Lacks breathability
- Frail inner lining
- Outsole rubber wears easily
- Tongue is not gusseted as promised
Key Features
- 77% recycled Jacquard upper for enhanced sustainability
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and enhances stability
- 100% recycled laces and webbing contribute to a greener footprint
- Molded nylon arch shank provides added support on uneven terrain
- Bellows tongue effectively keeps out debris during hikes
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole material: Rubber for superior traction
- Outer material: Leather adds durability and style
- Inner material: Recycled Mesh enhances breathability
The Merrell Speed Eco is a lightweight and flexible hiking shoe best suited for environmentally conscious outdoor enthusiasts. Priced at $110, it effectively balances affordability with performance, as confirmed by lab results indicating its capability for speed.
Constructed from recyclable materials, nearly every component of the Speed Eco, including the outsole, mesh upper, and laces, reflects its eco-friendly design. This commitment reinforces the product's name and purpose.
The midsole provides a notable energy return, recording an impressive 54.0%, which enhances agility during speed hikes. Its structure contributes to a comfortable experience, weighing only 11.6 oz (329g), which is 13.4% lighter than average.
Moreover, the midsole adapts well to natural foot flexion, demonstrating 22.4% greater flexibility than average in our bend test, making it suitable for various hiking conditions. However, its sustainable materials compromise breathability, as the upper tends to retain heat, making it less ideal for warm weather hiking.