The Merrell Speed Eco Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Merrell Speed Eco is a lightweight hiking shoe designed for eco-conscious users. With its construction featuring recycled materials, this shoe is ideal for short hikes and well-maintained trails. The low weight enhances comfort, making it suitable for leisurely strolls in nature.

However, the performance and durability are best suited for specific environments, as they may not hold up under rigorous conditions. The shoe's features support a sustainable approach to outdoor activities, allowing wearers to enjoy nature responsibly.


Pros

  • Balanced ground feel and impact protection
  • Feels lively and responsive underfoot
  • Firm and stable platform
  • Notably lighter then average
  • Highly durable upper mesh
  • Affordable price point
  • A ton of recycled materials
  • Fits true to width
  • Doesn't get any firmer in cold

Cons

  • Lacks breathability
  • Frail inner lining
  • Outsole rubber wears easily
  • Tongue is not gusseted as promised

Key Features

  • 77% recycled Jacquard upper for enhanced sustainability
  • Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and enhances stability
  • 100% recycled laces and webbing contribute to a greener footprint
  • Molded nylon arch shank provides added support on uneven terrain
  • Bellows tongue effectively keeps out debris during hikes

Specifications

  • Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber for superior traction
  • Outer material: Leather adds durability and style
  • Inner material: Recycled Mesh enhances breathability

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

Merrell Speed Eco Merrell Moab Speed 2 On Cloudhorizon Adidas Terrex Trailmaker
Price $110 $140 $170 $110
Trail terrain Light Moderate Light Moderate
Weight lab Weight brand 11.6 oz / 329g 11.6 oz / 329g 11 oz / 312g 12.7 oz / 361g
Lightweight
Breathability Moderate Breathable Moderate Breathable
Use Speed Hiking Day Hiking Day Hiking Speed Hiking
Orthotic friendly
Drop lab 12.0 mm 15.0 mm 9.1 mm 9.6 mm
Size True to size Slightly small Slightly small Slightly small
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Firm Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Normal Normal Normal
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Stiffness Flexible Moderate Moderate Moderate
Outsole hardness Average Average Average Average
Material Mesh Mesh Mesh -
Season All seasons Summer All seasons Summer
Toebox durability Good Very good Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Bad Bad Bad Bad
Outsole durability Decent Good Good Bad
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Wide Wide Medium
Lug depth 3.8 mm 3.7 mm 2.5 mm 3.4 mm
Heel stack lab 32.4 mm 38.8 mm 35.5 mm 30.6 mm
Forefoot 20.4 mm 23.8 mm 26.4 mm 21.0 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Technology Vibram - - -
Heel tab Finger loop Finger loop Finger loop Finger loop
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 34% Top 26% Bottom 31% Top 18%
Popularity Bottom 25% Top 18% Bottom 42% Bottom 22%