The Merrell Nova 3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Merrell Nova 3 is a versatile trail shoe designed for runners and outdoor enthusiasts. It is ideal for those seeking a well-cushioned option for activities such as running, walking, or hiking, thanks to its **30 mm** heel stack height and **10 mm** forefoot height, resulting in a **20 mm drop**.

The environmentally friendly upper enhances durability while the generously cushioned midsole provides support for extended outdoor adventures. The **Vibram outsole** features a significant grip factor, ensuring reliable traction on various surfaces.

Although the shoe weighs **350 grams**, which may be heavier than some prefer, its overall performance remains commendable. The stability offered by the **30 HA** foam translates to a dependable platform for varied terrain, making the Merrell Nova 3 a practical choice for those prioritizing comfort and function.


Pros

  • Upper crafted entirely from recycled materials
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Versatile for both hiking and walking
  • Vibram outsole with effective Traction Lugs
  • Attractive pricing for its features
  • Integrated rock plate for underfoot protection
  • Secure heel lockdown

Cons

  • Only suited for mild to moderate trails
  • Needs a reduction in weight
  • Not suited for fast paces

Key Features

  • Waterproof membrane that seals out water and lets moisture escape.
  • Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability.
  • COMFORTBASE rubberized EVA midsole for increased shock absorption and cushioning.
  • NXT treated to prevent odor.
  • Vibram TC5+ outsole provides exceptional traction for outdoor multi-sport activities.

Specifications

  • Origin: Made in the USA or Imported.
  • Sole material: Rubber.
  • Shaft height: Ankle.
  • Shaft circumference: 12.5 inches.

Merrell Nova 3 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Merrell Nova 3 New Balance 510 v6 Merrell Nova 4 Salomon Sense Ride 5
Price $125 $90 $130 $140
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.8 oz / 305g 11 oz / 312g 9.6 oz / 272g 10.3 oz / 291g
Drop lab Drop brand 9.9 mm 8.2 mm 12.1 mm 8.7 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size - Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Small Small
Plate Rock plate
Toebox durability Decent Decent Decent -
Heel padding durability Decent Bad Decent -
Outsole durability Good Good Decent -
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Narrow Narrow Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Moderate Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Flexible Flexible
Lug depth 3.5 mm 2.9 mm 4.0 mm 3.5 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 34.1 mm 33.8 mm 37.7 mm 27.2 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 24.2 mm 25.6 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 11% Bottom 3% Bottom 48% Top 30%
Popularity Bottom 49% Bottom 13% Bottom 47% Top 39%