TREKKING
Product 2021
Woman, Man
Trail or light hiking shoe? This Merrell Nova 2 is indeed on the fence of both. It has intrinsic mountain qualities: powerful grip, stability, and a certain hardiness. For pure trail running use, it lacks dynamism in the stride and a weight that should flirt with 300g to be in line with other products on the market targeting technical trail running.
However, for those who are not necessarily looking for performance in technical trail running, this Merrell Nova 2 is reliable, safe in dodgy passages thanks to its quality Vibram sole and its foot strike precision.
In fast hiking, even trekking, it meets most situations head on. Note, it also has a Gore-Tex membrane.
There is cushioning, especially at the heel. You can feel a bit of lateral rolling in this area, particularly a little less stability at the rear of the foot’s interior. Running, the filtration is quite good even if overall it is quite firm, especially under the forefoot. You can’t feel sharp stones underfoot.
You need to push the Merrell Nova 2 in your stride, it doesn’t prevent it but doesn’t bounce either. It is lacking a little “pep”, and better design on the sole to really make you want to run. Its stone guard is very thin, especially on the edges, which is a shame for protection against bangs as well as general wear and tear. In hiking use, it’s OK.
The toe-box volume is suitable for narrow or even medium width feet. Be careful, you should not bet on a stretchy mesh.
The lacing is simple and classic but very effective. The instep is well supported. The adjustment is fast and doesn’t really need any special adjusting.
The Merrell Nova 2 is a combination of comfort and support, comfort being its priority, this Merrell is around 60% comfort and 40% support. An appropriate balance for fast hiking or long distance running.
The Merrell Nova 2 is a shoe with a very classic but proven design. It can be used both in hiking, fast hiking and on technical trail running paths if you aren’t searching for personal performance. A good, versatile shoe with a powerful grip.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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