Merrell Moab Speed 2
Pros
- One of the lightest hiking shoes
- Plush and abundant cushioning
- Great support and stability
- Perfect grip for moderate terrain
- Excellent durability
- Breathable for summer
- Cozy step-in feel
- Two loops for easy on-off
Cons
- Frail inner lining
- Small debris gets inside
Key Features
- Responsible Collection: Incorporates recycled and repurposed materials to lessen environmental impact.
- Upper Material: Constructed with durable nylon ripstop and TPU for enhanced resilience.
- Lining: Features a breathable mesh made from recycled materials to keep your feet cool and comfortable.
- Closure: Uses a lace system crafted from recycled materials for a secure fit.
- Footbed: Made of EVA that contains 50% recycled content and treated with Cleansport NXT for anti-odor protection.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or imported, ensuring quality craftsmanship.
- Sole Material: Durable rubber that offers excellent grip and longevity.
- Outer Material: Leather exterior for durability and support.
- Inner Material: Recycled mesh lining for breathability and comfort.
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 is designed for women seeking a lightweight yet supportive hiking shoe. It excels in performance, making it a top choice in the lab for women's hiking footwear.
Weighing only 11.6 oz (329g), the Moab Speed 2 is 13.4% lighter than the average hiking shoe. Its stack height of 38.8/23.8 mm surpasses the average of 32.8/22.0 mm, contributing to its impressive design. The full-length FloatPro Foam offers significant impact protection, evidenced by a high 125 SA score.
During testing, we found the shoe provided excellent traction and stability. The midfoot features a FlexPlate that extends to the heel, enhancing controlled movements. Additionally, the firm Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole, equipped with 3.7 mm lugs, ensures reliable grip on various terrains.
A potential drawback is the absence of a fully gusseted tongue, which could allow small debris to enter. Women who prioritize this feature may wish to explore alternative options. Overall, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 combines lightness with durability, suited for diverse hiking conditions.
Nike Pegasus Trail 5
Pros
- Fully gusseted tongue
- Reflective elements
- Durable upper construction
- New rockered sole
- Great for heel strikers
- Reasonably priced
- All-around comfort
Cons
- Weight increase
- Possibly too plush for trails
- Still lacks traction
Key Features
- Water-Resistant GORE-TEX Upper: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- ReactX Foam Midsole: 13% more responsive than previous React technology, offering excellent energy return.
- Air Zoom Unit: Positioned in the forefoot for additional cushioning and responsiveness.
- Nike Trail ATC Outsole: Designed for all-terrain adaptability, ensuring stability even in wet weather.
- High Ankle Cuff: Prevents dirt and debris from entering the shoe.
- Reflective Elements: Enhance visibility during low-light conditions.
Specifications
- Model Number: FQ0908-400
- Upper Material: Waterproof GORE-TEX
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Shaft Height: Ankle Strap
- Cushioning: Air Zoom Unit
- Midsole: ReactX Foam
- Origin: Imported
The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 is a hybrid trail running shoe best suited for runners seeking reliability and versatility. It performs well on both rugged terrain and urban environments, effectively combining the necessary toughness with comfort for long-distance runs.
During extensive testing, the outsole exhibited minimal wear, with our durometer indicating a robust 87.9 HC All Terrain Compound. Testing with a Dremel revealed exceptional resistance, showing only slight damage of 0.8 mm. The 3.2 mm lug depth ensures excellent grip on moderate trails while remaining lightweight for city running.
Highly cushioned, the ReactX foam is measured at 51.1% softer than average, which aids in absorbing impact upon landing and propelling during takeoff. This cushioning significantly enhances the overall running experience. Its durability allows it to endure multiple training cycles without significant wear.
The upper section is padded and features layers of mesh for added protection, achieving a perfect score for durability in lab tests, as the Dremel barely affected its integrity. However, the shoe has limitations regarding ventilation, receiving a breathability rating of 2/5, making it less suitable for warmer weather conditions.
Saucony Xodus Ultra 4
Pros
- Amazing bounce from PWRRUN PB foam
- First Xodus Ultra with a Vibram outsole
- Stable platform underfoot
- Premium PWRRUN+ insole
- Works well for hiking too
- Full-length outsole coverage
- Excellent for ultras
- Fantastic traction on easy terrain
Cons
- Weight is becoming a real problem
- Tapered toebox fit
- Small price increase
- Weak heel padding durability
Key Features
- Max Cushioning: Features PWRRUN PB foam, providing a soft and bouncy feel underfoot for enhanced comfort.
- Durability: The chassis made from responsive PWRRUN ensures long-lasting performance and protection.
- Traction: Equipped with a full coverage Vibram Mega-Grip outsole, this shoe offers reliable traction on various surfaces.
- Protection: The high-strength engineered mesh protects against dirt and debris while remaining lightweight in high-abrasion areas.
- Gaiter Compatibility: Includes a D-Ring that allows for easy attachment of gaiters, enhancing your running experience in challenging environments.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 is designed for trail runners seeking a reliable and cushioned experience during off-road adventures. It offers significant ground-muting cushioning combined with an energy boost, making long distances feel less strenuous. With a wide base and the dependable Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole, it provides enhanced control and stability on various terrains.
The midsole of the Xodus Ultra 4 measures 37.6/31.1 mm, making it suitable for endurance runs. It features plush PWRRUN PB foam, which contributes to excellent shock absorption, with both the heel and forefoot scoring 127 SA. The shoe also exhibits impressive energy return, achieving a rebound of 64.9% in the heel and 72.4% in the forefoot.
To ensure stability, the midsole width is 116.7/97.3 mm, facilitating secure strides. The Vibram Megagrip rubber provides solid traction, evidenced by a score of 0.72 in wet conditions, signifying a grip that is 20.0% stronger than average. However, it is advisable to wear reflective elements when running in low-light situations, as the Xodus Ultra 4 lacks built-in reflective features.
Merrell Agility Peak 5 GTX
Pros
- True waterproof protection
- Grippy, trail-ready Vibram outsole
- Perfect for cold, wet climates
- Can handle some challenging conditions
- Stable yet cushioned heel
- Improved for hiking and walking
- Well-designed outsole lugs
- Great build quality
- Keeps feet warm
- Rock plate
Cons
- Narrow toebox
- Heel padding durability concerns
- No reflective elements
- Drop differs too much from stated
Key Features
- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane provides exceptional breathability and waterproof performance.
- Breathable engineered mesh and TPU upper for enhanced comfort.
- 100% recycled laces support sustainability efforts.
- Zipper closure for easy on and off access.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Engineered Mesh, TPU
- Inner material: Mesh
- Closure type: Pull-On
Merrell’s Agility Peak 5 GTX is designed for winter running enthusiasts seeking protection and comfort against icy conditions. Our lab tests confirmed that this shoe effectively safeguards against typical elements encountered during cold-weather runs, including slippery surfaces and discomfort. It features a notable Vibram outsole that provides excellent grip among snow running shoes.
The Vibram outsole demonstrated reliable traction during testing, equipped with deep 4.4 mm chevron lugs that enhance grip on slick ice. These lugs are thoughtfully spaced to manage both soft ground and more challenging terrains. This design instills confidence while navigating difficult winter conditions.
The upper is constructed with a waterproof GTX membrane, effectively blocking moisture and cold winds. Testing revealed minimal airflow in the dense upper, resulting in a ventilation score of 1/5, making it ideal for winter. As a result, we experienced no cold feet during our sub-zero temperature runs.
In terms of cushioning, the midsole is generously padded, particularly the 37.3 mm heel that absorbs landing impact well. Our durometer test indicated a near-average 21.3 HA, ensuring a balanced and comfortable running experience. Additionally, the shoe includes a rock plate that protects against underfoot hazards.
However, the Agility Peak 5 GTX may not be suitable for individuals with wide feet, as the tapered toebox can feel constricting. This aspect may limit its appeal for those who prefer a more spacious fit.
Salomon Speedcross 6
Pros
- Ideal for heel strikers
- Impressive durability
- Quick mud shedding ability
- Lightest Speedcross yet
- Secure lockdown with QuickLace system
- Enhanced ground feel in the forefoot
- Agile and responsive in fast corners
Cons
- Midsole feels like concrete
- Extremely poor breathability
- Not suitable for midfoot and forefoot strikers
- Low energy return
Key Features
- Unparalleled grip: The outsole is designed for superior traction, making it ideal for slippery or uneven surfaces.
- Comfortable fit: The Speedcross 6 provides a precise fit that adapts well to your foot shape, enhancing stability.
- Lightweight construction: This model is designed to be lighter than previous versions, allowing for greater agility during your runs.
- Revamped upper: The new upper design not only looks striking but also adds to the shoe's functionality.
- Fast mud evacuation: Enhanced drainage capabilities ensure that water and mud do not weigh you down.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Polyurethane
- Outer material: Polyester
- Closure type: Bungee
The Speedcross 6 is a suitable choice for hikers seeking a lightweight and agile shoe. It demonstrates significant performance in handling muddy tracks and dirt trails, thanks to its flexible yet stable platform and robust lugs.
Weighing only 10.4 oz (296g), it is 22.1% below the average weight of hiking shoes, making it light enough for running as well. Laboratory tests indicate that it is 13.0% more flexible than average, enhancing comfort on longer excursions and allowing for quick adaptations to unpredictable trails.
Equipped with the reliable Contagrip outsole, which we measured at 93.9 HC on the durometer, it provides exceptional grip on slick and soft surfaces. The 5.8 mm deep, aggressively spaced lugs ensure notable traction and control across various terrains.
The firm midsole contributes to stability and ground sensitivity, evidenced by its low shock absorption rating of 96 SA. Additionally, the curved insole design offers support by allowing the foot to sit inside rather than balance on top.
However, these shoes may not be ideal for summer use due to limited breathability, making them more comfortable in cooler weather conditions.
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.