The Merrell Alverstone 2 Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Merrell Alverstone 2 is a durable hiking shoe, designed for those who seek stability on varied terrains. Its supportive structure makes it ideal for long hikes, particularly beneficial for users needing reliable traction and comfort during extended outdoor activities.

Lab tests indicate that the outsole provides significant grip on rocky surfaces, allowing for confident navigation. The shoe performs well in cold conditions, verified by freezer tests, ensuring warmth during winter excursions.

While the upper may retain heat, making it less suitable for hot weather, its price point of $100 offers a cost-effective option for hikers seeking performance without overspending.

Pros

  • Reliable grip and traction
  • Versatile grip for moderate terrain
  • Accommodating toebox
  • Smooth and stable ride
  • Good for winter hikes
  • Budget-friendly
  • Sustainably built

Cons

  • Too hot for summer hikes
  • Not ideal for narrow feet
  • Midsole may be too firm for some

Key Features

  • Waterproof Membrane: Seals out water while allowing moisture to escape, keeping your feet dry during wet conditions.
  • Merrell Air Cushion: Located in the heel, this feature absorbs shock and adds stability, enhancing your comfort on rugged trails.
  • Upper Material: A combination of suede leather and breathable mesh provides durability and ventilation for long-lasting wear.
  • Molded Nylon Arch Shank: Offers additional support, improving your overall foot positioning and reducing fatigue.
  • Traditional Lace Closure: Ensures a secure and adjustable fit, accommodating different foot shapes and sizes.

Specifications

  • Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber, providing good grip and resistance.
  • Shaft Height: Ankle, providing adequate coverage for support.
  • Shaft Circumference: 4 Inches, accommodating various calf sizes comfortably.

Merrell Alverstone 2 Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Merrell Alverstone 2 Salomon X Ultra 360 Merrell Accentor 3 Merrell Moab 3
Price $100 $125 $100 $120
Trail terrain Moderate Moderate Technical Technical
Weight lab Weight brand 13.4 oz / 380g 12.9 oz / 367g 13.9 oz / 393g 15.3 oz / 434g
Lightweight
Breathability Warm Breathable Warm Breathable
Use Day Hiking Day Hiking Day Hiking Day Hiking
Orthotic friendly
Drop lab 14.0 mm 15.5 mm 14.1 mm 11.2 mm
Size True to size Slightly small True to size True to size
Midsole softness Firm Balanced Firm Firm
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Small Normal
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Moderate Flexible
Stiffness Flexible Moderate Flexible Flexible
Outsole hardness Hard Average Very hard Average
Material Mesh - Mesh Leather
Season Winter Summer Winter Summer
Toebox durability Very good Good Very good -
Heel padding durability Bad Decent Bad -
Outsole durability Decent Decent Decent -
Width / fit Wide Wide Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Lug depth 4.0 mm 4.5 mm 4.3 mm 4.8 mm
Heel stack lab 30.6 mm 34.4 mm 30.8 mm 31.7 mm
Forefoot 16.6 mm 18.9 mm 16.7 mm 20.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Technology - Ortholite - Vibram
Heel tab Finger loop Finger loop Finger loop Finger loop
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 14% Bottom 5% Bottom 17% Top 20%
Popularity Bottom 8% Top 40% Bottom 48% Top 3%