The Merrell Agility Peak 4 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Merrell Agility Peak 4 is a versatile trail running shoe that also performs effectively as a hiking shoe. Its design is particularly suitable for runners seeking stability and traction in challenging terrains, backed by rigorous lab data. With a firm FloatPro midsole translating to a muted ride, it provides a stable platform necessary for navigating uneven surfaces.

Despite its strengths, concerns regarding durability have emerged from the outsole and upper materials. The shoe's performance metrics are notable but highlight a mixed overall experience, prompting a thorough evaluation of its suitability for long-term use. In conclusion, the Merrell Agility Peak 4 delivers significant benefits for those prioritizing stability, yet potential users should weigh these against the identified drawbacks.

Pros

  • Really stable ride
  • Excellent for winter weather
  • Thrives in muddy conditions
  • Lugs excel uphill and downhill
  • Doubles as hiking shoe
  • Ample stack height for heel strikers
  • Upper fits most types of feet

Cons

  • Lackluster durability
  • Average-at-best breathability
  • Actual drop differs from 6 mm

Key Features

  • Jacquard Upper Material: Enhances air circulation to keep your feet cool during intense activities.
  • Comfort Lining: Prevents blisters and skin irritation, ensuring a comfortable fit over extended periods.
  • Padded Collar: Provides additional comfort around the ankle area.
  • Protective Toe Cap: Shields your toes from stones and other debris you may encounter on the trails.
  • Secure Lacing System: Equipped with metal eyelets for a reliable and adjustable fit.

Specifications

  • Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Synthetic
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up
  • Size: 44.5 EU (10 UK)

Merrell Agility Peak 4 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Merrell Agility Peak 4 Merrell Agility Peak 5 La Sportiva Mutant Hoka Speedgoat 6
Price $130 $140 $165 $155
Trail terrain Technical Moderate Technical Moderate
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.3 oz / 292g 10.2 oz / 289g 11.4 oz / 323g 9.8 oz / 278g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.3 mm 13.4 mm 11.3 mm 4.9 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Mid/forefoot
Size Slightly large True to size Half size small Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Firm Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Small Small
Plate Rock plate Rock plate
Toebox durability Decent Very good Good Good
Heel padding durability Decent Decent Good Good
Outsole durability Decent Good Decent Decent
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Warm
Width / fit Narrow Medium Narrow Medium
Toebox width Wide Narrow Medium Medium
Stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Lug depth 4.4 mm 4.5 mm 5.0 mm 4.0 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 34.4 mm 39.2 mm 33.2 mm 32.1 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 25.1 mm 25.8 mm 21.9 mm 27.2 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
For heavy runners
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 44% Top 38% Top 41% Bottom 11%
Popularity Bottom 7% Top 31% Bottom 37% Top 13%