The Merrell Fly Strike Review & Lab Test of 2026

The Merrell Fly Strike is an affordable trail shoe specifically designed for walking and hiking. With a notable **17 mm drop**, it may not be suitable for all runners, particularly those who prefer a lower drop. This design can present challenges for barefoot enthusiasts, as the forefoot lacks adequate cushioning and is relatively thin.

Despite these limitations for running, the Merrell Fly Strike excels in breathability and features a comfortable upper. These attributes make it a viable option for a wide range of outdoor activities, particularly where comfort during extended wear is essential.

Pros

  • Great ventilation
  • Durable and cozy upper
  • Ultra-plush tongue
  • Reasonably priced
  • Suitable for casual wear
  • Works well for walking and hiking
  • Can be used as a go-to travel shoe

Cons

  • Excessively high drop
  • Only suited for heel strikers
  • Lacks outsole durability

Key Features

  • Breathable mesh upper for enhanced airflow and comfort during intense activities.
  • Removable EVA footbed ensures all-day comfort, allowing you to customize your fit.
  • Lightweight EVA foam midsole delivers stability and cushioning to reduce fatigue during workouts.
  • Merrell sticky rubber outsole provides durable traction, giving you the grip you need on various surfaces.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Leather
  • Closure type: Lace-Up

Merrell Fly Strike Review & Lab Test – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Merrell Fly Strike La Sportiva Prodigio New Balance 510 v6 Salomon Sense Ride 5
Price $90 $155 $90 $140
Trail terrain Light Moderate Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.3 oz / 292g 9.6 oz / 271g 11 oz / 312g 10.3 oz / 291g
Drop lab Drop brand 17.3 mm 8.9 mm 8.2 mm 8.7 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size Half size small True to size Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Small Small
Toebox durability Good Very bad Decent -
Heel padding durability Decent Bad Bad -
Outsole durability Decent Decent Good -
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Medium Narrow Medium
Toebox width Wide Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Flexible
Lug depth 3.5 mm 3.4 mm 2.9 mm 3.5 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 34.3 mm 29.3 mm 33.8 mm 27.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 17.0 mm 20.4 mm 25.6 mm 18.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Narrow
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 14% Bottom 27% Bottom 3% Top 30%
Popularity Bottom 25% Bottom 40% Bottom 13% Top 39%