When it comes to lightweight shoes, Merrell is one of the first brands that come to mind. They’ve been striving for years, with many different iterations of shoes, to come up with the perfect to emulate running while still providing impact protection.
Here we will be comparing two of Merrell’s most popular lines: The vs , to help you decide which is best for your running needs.
Specs:
- Price Point: $55-$100
- Weight: 8.25oz
- Lug Depth: 4mm
- Drop: 0mm Drop
- Cushion: 8mm cushion
- : 15.5mm
Description
The is a that straddles the line between completely and normal shoes. It has a little more heft to it than the Gloves, and that’s intentional.
With the , you can tackle those trails that would otherwise be too uncomfortable to run in a . The provides exceptional tread, even on wet trails, and the thicker lug depth will keep your sensitive feet safe from rogue sticks or rocks.
Unfortunately, though wet trails don’t pose too much of a problem, muddy trails are the downfall for this . Stability suffers when mud enters the picture.
Owners of the report that the soles, while thicker, are nice and firm, allowing you to get all the feedback you need from the .
Pros
- More protection and stability from a thicker
- Great feedback and
- Still feels like a , despite being a bit more substantial
Cons
- The can be slippery on man-made surfaces like floors and roads
- Heavier than the
- Can’t handle very muddy trails
Verdict
The is a superb choice for long-distance runners that prefer routes that are a little wilder, and therefore, will require a bit more protection.
These shoes are breathable, protective without being restrictive, and have good on the and in most situations.
These are the shoes for you if you’re looking for a experience without the pain from stepping on errant obstacles.
Specs
- Price Point: $65-$120
- Weight: 7oz
- Lug Depth: 3mm
- Drop: 0mm
- Cushion: 3mm
- : 11.5mm
Description
Merrell’s most popular line of shoes is no doubt the . This has just enough padding and protection to keep your feet protected while still feeling as as possible.
Compared to the 8mm cushion in the , you’re definitely going to feel more in the Gloves, and depending on what you’re wanting out of your , this can be either good or bad.
They also have a , so the grip seems to be comparable to the . This means great tread on wet trails, but a slippery run in excess mud. They’re a good option for .
All in all, there’s a reason why the Gloves are one of the top-selling running shoes around. Their balance of protection, wearability, and feedback is incredible.
Pros
- Great feedback
- Amazingly lightweight
- Very while still offering protection
Cons
- Not as much protection
- A little pricier
- Uncomfortable on very rough trails
Verdict
The is a streamlined version of the typical , complete with all the bells and whistles we’ve come to expect from Merrell.
If you’re used to the roughness of your bare feet on the trails, but just want to be a little safer on your feet and toes, then the is for you.
Final Thoughts – vs.
The and the are similar shoes. Both are made by Merrell, but subtly different enough from each other to make a difference.
If you’re new to , prefer rougher trails, or just need a little more protection, go with the .
If you prefer the closest experience to real running as possible and don’t mind a little less protection, then go with the Merrel .
