Merrell SUCKS!!! by TheGearTester

In the last 5 years I have purchased 6 pairs of Merrell shoes/boots. I have been dissatisfied with the quality, durability and longevity of Merrell's footwear.

[@PGMOD3L]

I am a foot(wear) expert, most shoes/boots will start to deteriorate around 9 months of continuous use. In the video you show how one boot wears more on the heel than the other. This is because you supinate, or roll to the outside of your foot, which causes wear on the outside. I would say you got your money out of all of them. The chameleon series was meant to be a light packing/speed hiker series, you are comparing them to a heavy pack boot. My point is this review is not very good because you compare to different class boots like they are the same

[@carlosg.garciamsc3945]

+PGMOD3L, you're right.

[@DobermansRock]

I agree 100%. I don't use a screw driver to remove a bolt. I use a wrench.

[@cooloutac]

9 months? jesus christ. Thats only because everything is made in china now. Longest pair of boots I had was timberlands for 10 years. every day use!!! Sure soles wear, but wear evenly. Abandoned timberland years ago, when the same model pair, sole heel wore out in the street in less then a year, only a couple months and I was walking crooked.. Felt way smaller and no longer true to size? Even the sole itself was much smaller, made in china. Sound familiar? thats every company now. America itself is not going to last as long anymore either. This is getting sad.

[@dallastaylor5479]

Ahhhhh I disagree PGMOD3L. I bought a pair of mary jane Merrel shoes, $96. I don't use them much but in months they started to fall apart. I have never had any shoe fall apart like these did. Soooo, I thought I would go to Wolverine headquarters outlet to show them and get them replaced. Nope. They didn't even carry the shoe at their HQ. I will never buy another pair of anything by Wolverine. The Quality is worse than 20 dollar shoes, just terrible.

[@olive4naito]

I have to agree with you. The suede/mesh shoes Merrell makes with Vibram soles are light weight and very soft for comfort. Lighter weight and comfort = less durable shoe. A good performance running shoe will have almost no durability (but it largely depends on your weight), are soft and breath-able, and are practically weightless. They will not last but they will feel like the angels made them just for you. Clunkier, harder shoes like the Italian made boots in this video will last much longer and will protect your feet when you run into big boulders but they will also be heavier, hotter, and make you move at the pace of a sleepy elephant. That's not to say that Amazon or Ebay don't sell fake Merrells. Always buy from a trusted website. Just in case.

[@Wipsplash]

Can't compare heavy duty boots to a set of hiking sneakers. Different breads.

[@MrCamel2humps]

Wipsplash breads? 🥖 I think you meant breeds.

[@badlieutenant13]

French bread is my favorite, sometimes sourdough is good....what's your favorites?

[@garretjcoleman]

Sourdough all the way!

[@BunnanaPie]

Yall tried sourdough pizza? Shits fire 🔥

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

Any type of bread with good fibre, texture and taste. Plain white bread is for delicate sissies.

[@joshnila]

You do realize you are comparing a shoe that cost $300+ vs 2 pairs of shoes that cost around $120?? Not the best example of a side by side review imo.

[@junior.von.claire]

joshnila Your comment is what I was thinking the entire time. I’ve owned Vasque, Solomon and AKU. I understand the Italy vs China argument, but still. $350 vs $120 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@TheForge10]

@@junior.von.claire those leather mountain boots would be 400 dollars plus in Aus while the latest Accentor 3 mids by Merrel which are a light weight hiking boot retail for 189 bucks form their Aus website ands are made of lightweight material compared to heavy leather. The OP needs to be realistic , his comparisons are a bit flawed.

[@marxman00]

One of the few good things about the UK is if any footwear does not last at least 12 months they are considered "not fit for purpose" and we have a statutary right of replacement or refund.

[@attananightshadow]

You're comparing apples to steak... A Chevy Cruze to a corvette. Etc etc. Glad you bought the flagship pair used, but it's in a different league than the cheapie ones you replaced them with twice!! That saying "you get what you pay for" holds true even among the same company. I wear merrel for light duty. Medium duty I use American made Danner's, and when shit gets real, meindl's from Germany suffice.

[@whatfreedom7]

attananightshadow definitely not the same type of boots. That used one is a more traditional heavier duty boot were those others are a light duty Boot more like a shoe. If he was to go buy a merrell traditional boot like the first one he would have better results i think.

[@gangsta7369]

Merrell have seriously went down hill, their boot and shoe construction was so substantial there motto used to be "Try to Wear Me Out" and it was almost impossible to wear them out. I threw out my used Merrill Boots after 12 years (I wore them week in and week out and have climbed a lot of big point things in them), there was not a break in them, my feet just got to big for them. I replaced them with a pair of Merrell MOAB's (as I have Miendle 4 Season boots I got for Everest), these MOAB's which lasted 12 - 18 months, the top split from the sole. Merrell really need to get back to building quality, made in China says it all.

[@davebriss6270]

Undependently of brand and age of those products, you are actually comparing a real hiking boot, meant for mountain hikes, with high shoes, its categorized as a "hiking shoe", and supports the ankle, but a different category of product for sure. It's like comparing a yacht to a canoe

[@nonvisi79]

You're comparing two different purposed shoes, just weight the two and no need to waste everyone's time. One is meant to be light with mesh, softer thinner suede, and a lower toe to heel ratio. They're not built nor meant to last as long as the other pair. Compare apples to apples, but a current model Merrell boot equivalent in build abd purpose as the old pair, wear and tear, then compare. Don't waste people's time.

[@xzaxx]

he says he used the shoes for 4 years and is complaining that they look old or they are torn up most shoes don't last longer than 4 years before they are turn up or look old.

[@RonKris]

Merrell, the best hiking, everyday shoe I've owned. I've have not had the issues you have. Salomon are way overpriced.

[@theodoreroosevelt9665]

13thFlor I agree. I took the Merrell Moab Ventilators on a 100 mile hike in New Mexico (rough terrain, water, etc.) and they were fine.

[@DeltaX15]

RonKris I agree, I've worn the Moab for 3 years straight, I replace them every year or so but I wear them everyday and I beat the hell out of them, would not be more satisfied with their performance.

[@jamesgreen7647]

I bet you work for Merrell, they are utterly crap.

[@cooloutac]

you replace them every year!?! oh Jeez, I just ordered a pair of 150 dollar moab 2's. I was hoping they'd last at least over 2 years minimum. Shit.

[@DeltaX15]

Yep, I wear them literally everyday and regularly take them hiking. I won't wear anything else after getting the Moab

[@eyewandersfoto]

Completely different shoes. What was the original price of the italian-made shoes vs the cameleon? If I had to guess I'd say the full leather hiking boot style would be at *least* twice the cost of the more mixed use ones you've purchased recently. Apples to oranges. Buy a pair of Zamberlan boots if you want true quality and don't want to replace them for say at least 5 years.

[@cooloutac]

here is all of their goretex shoes. www.merrell.com/US/en/gore-tex-hiking/

[@wvsportsman3987]

You only wore the leather boots for work and hikes, you wore the other shoes EVERY DAY. Obviously you will have wear on something being used every day, also the leather are way more expensive than the other two. I mean my god you got the higher end second hand probably because of the price shouldn't that explain the difference anyways?

[@ov3rcl0cked]

You are comparing completely leather boots to hiking shoes with a lot of fabric. A big part of it is actually the weight, but you're right they tend to use cheaper materials all around. However, comparing cost/quality ratio they are likely almost equal. If you look the the original price of those boots they're probably pretty pricey(at least for the time they were originally sold). Now their boots are pretty cheap. I like Merrell's hiking shoes, but I've heard a lot good things about Vasque St. Elias GTX.

[@Knife1437]

Sorry dude. It's not the brand it's you. All shoes that aren't high end welted shoes are shit. You have to accept that a cemented shoe is a cemented shoe... The only thing holding the outsole to the midsole is industry grade glue. Second of all Vibram soles are the best rubber soles on the market, you have ergonomic soft rock shoes. They won't last as they're designed to be soft and to hug your foot and terrain. A hiking or military boot is designed to be a medium-hard outsole for hard use wear and weight. You can't compare a hiking boot to a walking shoe either. A walking shoe is for a small day pack while a hiking boot is for a hiking pack. A soft sole is also more comfortable, weighs less and doesn't last as long. Everything is being made overseas in 2/3rd world countries. The only way to buy true quality is to understand what your buying by knowing what to look for. The best military boot on the market is US made Danners that are welted. There are other smaller companies that also make high quality boots but Danner is the best of the big brands. You're paying $400 AUD for a high quality Danner. Most Merrells are $200 AUD, there is a huge difference. You can't even buy a leather welted lace up for less than $200 AUD. There is a reason why you pay more for quality shoes. The other side to that point is that cemented shoes are only designed to last 12 months general use after that it's bonus time. Most guys in the military will change there boots every 12 months and have a second pair already worn in set to go. So if a medium-hard sole military boot is ready to be trashed after 12 months how long do you really expect out of a hard worn soft sole pair of walking shoes, 6 months. Moral of the story, buy a harder sole shoe & look at something welted so expect to pay more. That's why I never spend over $200 AUD on a cemented shoe and pref to spend less than $150 AUD, $100 AUD being ideal.

[@cooloutac]

link me a more rugged boot from the merrel site. They don't manufacture anything else anymore guy. I just ordered a pair last week and was looking. Only the thermo winter boots look solid, but they don't make a wide, and not all season.

[@MBE-qs5qb]

“I bought these SHOES USED”

[@junior.von.claire]

Matt D154 What’s your point?

[@ninanina5412]

@@junior.von.claire it's disgusting !

[@junior.von.claire]

NinaNina lol

[@kevinhummel6895]

100% agree. Not sure what happened at Merrell but after 2 pair failed after only a short time, I will not purchase another Merrell product.

[@kevinhurney8843]

Did you say you wore them for a year and a half? Holy smokes, they did their job well. You just sold me. I have been wearing Nike for a few years and they just fall apart in first few months. Thanks for vid. :)

[@secfeed6987]

Yeah Nike has gone shit. I think it's just in Australia, must be all counterfeit nikes going around.

[@Zen2Motion]

Merrell has changed something and after 10 plus years of loyalty I made the change to Salomon. My last two boots from Merrell fell completely apart in less than a year of medium use. In the past these shoes lasted over two years of heavy use something is different and they do not manufacture quality anymore.

[@datazndood]

First Merell ever purchased, the Vego, (almost exactly to the bottom right in the beginning of the video) I agree about ankle support. It’s second to none. I can literally just walk carelessly on uneven, rocky terrain without rolling my ankles. Wish I bought more pairs.

[@finerbiner]

"Buy 5 pairs of dress shoes and wear then in rotation. They will last forever." Top salesman gave me that advice long and it was good advice. wearing any shoe every day will shorten its life dramatically.

[@tjdinfl]

Soled its sole?

[@jbmemphis2151]

Merrells are easily my favorite shoes period. I have an injured foot going back 10 years and merrell have been my best bet. I worked in landscaping for 8 years now deliver for ups so i put serious work in on merrell shows. Good shoes.

[@aightbet1471]

YES

[@josefandino9374]

JB I just purchased my first Moab speed thermo boots, they should arrive next week. I've been a landscaper since 2001. If possible give me your thoughts on their boots since you are more familiar with this product. Thanks in advance.

[@jbmemphis2151]

@@josefandino9374 they are lightweight. The waterproofing kind of varies from line to line. I've found the suede style shoes of theirs have better waterproofing than the leather ones I have to wear at work. The ones I buy for work don't hold up the best either but I can usually get a year our of them which in ok with because I love how lightweight they are for what I do.. landscaping wasn't as hard on them for me as delivering for ups is.

[@macmaster9840]

Some things to consider (without judging the Merrells): 1) It is common knowledge that everyday use of the same shoe is a very destructive, costly and unwise use of shoes. When the shoe never have time to completely dry and the sole have no time to fully "inflate" its degeneration is accelerated. It'ss also very bad for the user, with everything from smelly feet to back problems as common cause. ALWAYS alternate between at least two, preferably tree different shoes. 2) It is a lot of ranting about "Chinese made" in the comments. Don't blame the Chinese. Blame the customers. I bought a pair of Merrells as student 25 years ago. Full grain leather. Top quality. They where close to $200, at that time. So that would be close to $500 today. If customers are not willing to pay more than $150 for boots from a company who built their reputation on $500 boots, don't be surprised that quality doesn't meet expectation. 3) When it comes to rubber soles, it is clear that removal of Phthalates and other dangerous substances in recent years have taken its toll on rubber longevity and durability. Sadly, to the point where extraordinary good longevity and durability should raise suspicion that something is not by the book. Just some thought! I much appreciate feedback from anyone that have compared boots from different companies and can give advice. As I said my $200 (now $500) Merrell lasted me many years of good service (although they always had some problem with breathability, which might be inherent with full grain). Asolo Fugitive fits nice and problem free. Will require shoes to be removed on every break to allow proper ventilation. After 2 strenuous treks in harsh conditions (total 400 km/250 miles) fabric is starting to rip where toe bend due to poor manufacturing, neglected overcast stitch and insufficient seam allowance. Lowa zephyr. Bought without Goretex, to see if breathability could be improved over Asolo. Test not yet conclusive. However, sole feels thinner compared to Asolo since you feel more "in the sole" than on top of the sole compared to Asolo. Not yet used on any real challenging endeavors.

[@GlockUSMC]

Thanks for sharing! I noticed that with a pair of my Merrell shoes I had last purchased. I had previously purchased more then few pairs and wondered why the more recently purchased pair came apart on me. Thanks for the honest feedback.

[@lordberly]

Ah, another title-edgy-click-bait video review on KZbin.

[@sdemosi]

I've ditched Merrell and Salomon for the same reason. They're fine for very casual hiking and not durable enough for anything off trail. You end up replacing the shoe every few months. Salomon make better boots but their quality has dipped as well over the last few years. Scarpa and Lowa are my go-to now and they make much better shoes. The quality is night and day. I have Scarpa Zodiacs that look better after 500 km of mountain hiking than Moabs do after 50km. They're a totally different boot of course but that doesn't mean Merrell's should wear so fast. Scarpa trail runners are more durable too. And as for Lowa, my Caminos are built to last for years. Lowa can replace multiple parts of the boot (I've used their repair service before and it's great). You can get a resole, a heel fabric repair, lace rivets fixed, rands replaced and other stuff to keep a boot going for years with hard use. It's an investment, not a consumable you throw away in a year.

[@murray821]

Comparing a $300 boot to a $100 shoe

[@eatapeach2677]

ive owned ...and am actually wearing them now, Merrell Ridge Gore Tex II, for the better part of 11 years. Best boots ive ever owned. Avid outdoorsman and outdoor worker, theyve got several seasons left in them.

[@cooloutac]

wow those do look good. But they don't make them anymore. Discontinued. They apparenlty only make cheap flimsy mesh sneaker stuff from china now.... Like every other American Company. This country is in a downward spiral.

[@kulilipan4250]

great reviewI had the same experience with my chameleon regarding soles , what would you recommend for the next shoe?

[@papifrompeckerwood4683]

I must agree with you on your opinion of Merrell. After owning 3 pairs of Chameleons, I can definitely see a consistent slippage of quality in the identical shoe over the last 5 yrs of buying them. They are not cheap shoes as far as price goes. Maybe Keen or Salomon is better quality?

[@Wipsplash]

I've had a set of Phoenix Ventilator Merrells for over 2 years and they still are in fantastic shape. They are the best shoes that I have ever owned. I just ordered 2 new sets of waterproof Moabs today and am hoping they will be good also.

[@MrLeonidas0001]

The rear lining on my Merrell Axis 2 is almost completely gone and I have some duct tape back there to keep my ankle from tearing into the shoe backing haha! Gotta agree with you man, for what you pay the quality just ain't there. I have had better luck with Under Armour and 5.11. Thanks for sharing!

[@jampav33]

I would slip on wet grass in my chameleon 7’s. Who wants to pay that kind of money for a rubber sole that slips on wet grass? Their adds kept popping up on my Facebook and every time my huskies would bring me down on a hike it was in those shoes and I would let them know I was getting injured wearing their foot wear. They offered to send me a new model so I will wait and see. My 5 year old slip on leather pair is the same as yours; a much higher quality that is still my favorite winter dog-walking shoe. I couldn’t have said it better myself, but I will add that after 18 months almost any daily shoe I wear gets shredded, but I am hard on footwear.

[@destinynoon]

I work with an arborist as a ground man. I purchased two pair of their 8 inch waterproof tactical boots. The first time I needed them to be waterproof, they weren't. Both pair leaked, I wasn't in deep water. Just below my ankle. The boots SUCK! My socks got soaked. I'm not happy. I bought a pair of redwings, problem solved.

[@paulpetersen3764]

My wife and I have both had failures of Merrill boots at very inconvenient times. They were fairly new and the sole detached from the rest of the shoe. In both cases, we were a number of miles into the mountains, and neither of us were very happy about having to curtail our hike and walk back out to the trailhead in essentially bare feet. I will NEVER buy Merrill's again.

[@shaynewarner5422]

Its like saying "my 1.8L petrol hatchback wont pull my 5t horse float" becuase the car is the problem. This video is as much a review of inept gear selection and expectation as it is actually about the footwear. Not useful at all.

[@mamalovesthebeach437]

A year and a half of wearing every day is a lot of wear especially if you're wear them on concrete/asphalt. I have 5 pair of Merrell's Moab, mid hikers and wear them everyday hiking on the beach. I need a 1 1/2" lift (old compound fracture) and my shoe guy LOVES the construction of Merrell. BTW . . . Merrell is now making their boots in Portland, Oregon. They are lightweight hikers not like the old heavy leather hikers that you show in this video. I used to have old leather hikers too but would NEVER go back to them. Merrell's have literally saved my outdoor life and it wouldn't be a stretch to say life as I know it. Shoes nowadays (for women) aren't meant to last and they're constantly changing them but the Moab Ventilator has been the same for years. 5 stars from this avid hiker . . .

[@cooloutac]

Well you definitely gave me hope. I have a pair of moab's on the way, and am nervous at all the reviews saying they made in china, don't last a year, and start leaking after a few uses...... for 150 dollars. I always though all leather is the way to go. But I guess thats old news? Or maybe thats waht they want us all to think, because they don't want the boots lasting that long..... Jesus the poor is getting poorer in America.

[@olive4naito]

It's not a conspiracy, lol. Moabs were made to not require any breaking in. It's a softer material. A tougher boot will hurt like hell until you break them in but you'll have the blisters to prove it.

[@w.drewturner1248]

I bought a pair of Merrell shoes a year ago and I’ve been impressed how well they’ve held up. I work outdoors so I’m harder than most on footwear. I bought another pair today.

[@tybearhull]

This was painful to watch. lol You're comparing apples to oranges my friend. Two very different classes of boot. A light duty boot versus a heavy duty boot. Not to mention, you're getting some decent use out of those boots. Wearing them every day for close to a year is enough to wear out the majority of footwear out there.

[@saltyjo7514]

Please tell me if there is a hiking boot that would lasts and the sole would not separate? I have a pair from Hi-Tec, the outer sole came loose after my 2nd wear.

[@sdfg88]

Good commentary. I've got 2 pairs of casual Merrell shoes. Sprint Blast and Circuit Grid. Both have struggled to live to 18 months of use. I mainly wore them to work on casual Fridays - one day a week! My other black leather Florsheims take a 4 day a week beat down and keeps going. I was thinking of getting the Chameleon II Flux, but after seeing this review I'm holding back because it has the same sole as the ones you have shown. Thanks heaps.

[@hoagie9080]

I've owned two pairs of the chameleons. The first pair I stopped wearing after a year due to the fabric at the back of the heel peeling away, so the shoes rubbed and no longer fitted properly. The Slam Luna pair I own now are probably the most uncomfortable shoe I've ever worn. The only shoe I've ever worn where my left heel will not seat properly and will not stay seated no matter the lacing or socks I try. The only pair of Merrells I will ever buy again are their MOAB brand as I've owned 4 pairs over the years and I wore them until they completely fell apart, most comfortable boots I've ever worn.

[@johnbr59]

yeah... those merrells you bought there did suck. it was the chameleon 3/chameleon axiom shoe design/sole. i remember trying a pair of the axioms (low shoe). they sucked hard. the original chameleon wrap slam were a great shoe. the moab line is also a great shoe and continue to this day. i also have a pair of merrell outbound boots which are great. bottom line... that newer chameleon range sucked. a lot of the new merrell stuff does suck hard. but you can't go wrong with moab gtx.

[@johnk9290]

Thanks for the review. What model is the made in Itali shoe?

[@v1m30]

Well said man, it's a huge problem even today with most of these big brands. Quality gone to the gutter and I'm comparing the same type and price range of shoes from same brands over time. Salomons fit well but good luck getting your size be available at all anywhere, the good shoes I had from them are not made after a short time so can't buy them, replaced with newer better planned obsolescence shoes. Addidas... I literally wore down the tread on them, something the Salomons didn't do at all after double the time. Merrel... couldn't get bigger size, not available, still they are fairly unstable of a shoe despite presize tight fit where as Salomons are always much more secure to me, same as Solomons their outter design falls apart eventually from all the bending of the fabrics and cosmetic overlays. The Addidas holds on outside so far after 2 years but the soles weren't glued just like your Merrels, so they squeaked since day 1 and after 2 years out of warranty exactly the planned obsolescence kicked in and the soles unglued in very large areas as they only glued the stupid edges to the cosmetic fabric lol, for real, oh well glued them back properly but the tread is worn down from barely using them really.

[@MooTaters]

MOAB goretex owner for at least 7 years probably, maybe 3-4 of those being off in the winter season as I needed something more insulating. Only thing that I could say was crap was the insole, but I guess when we're talking ~$10 for replacements I shouldn't expect much there. It took it probably 5-6 years before I saw any wear on the fabric in the heel. The only other problem I had was early-ish(later than the insoles crapping out) on some of the suede has come off or almost chipped away on the surface. The vibram sole has significantly flattened, but no problems otherwise with it. For around double the price of the kind of shoes I had been wearing to last 4+ times as long and still be in better condition, I can't complain.

[@theinfidelH8]

A 150-200 dollar pair of boots isn’t going to last for years under normal/above normal use. I don’t understand why people think that they will. If you want boots that will last for years be prepared to pay 300 and above.

[@williamhnatko1958]

I have the same pair of the chameleon 2’s that I wore for a year in Afghanistan. I loved them and never had an issue, even after running foot patrols daily

[@MisfitsFiendClub138]

Problem with Merrell hiking shoes is the insoles get completely crushed within a year. The dilemma is buy quality insoles for $40-$50 or use that money towards a new pair of a different brand 🤔 🏃‍♂️

[@igvandeventer]

I have been buying the Merrell Chameleon for years. I had a pair of Chameleon 2s that I wore out in my early adult years. I still have the Chameleon 4 stretch I purchased 12 years ago that I have almost worn the lugs off from hiking, outside work use and daily wear, only swapping out the insoles and tying the bungies when they break. While they are not really waterproof anymore, I still wear them. I use Merrell Strongfield and Chamelon Flux safety toe shoes as my primary work shoe, and I just ordered the Moab 3 WP. Love Merrell and I will continue to buy them.

[@Tienuyan]

Bro, I have 12 , TWELVE, Merrell shoes. NEVER HAD A PROBLEM, and I hike 40-60 km every weekend here in Taiwan, where we have 268 peaks over 3000 meters.

[@gemmaanneroissetter]

I've had several pairs of Merrell and love them - until they fall apart. Some of them within a year or two of purchase. Admittedly I do live in them - but I too am unhappy with the durability of them, esp for the prices they are asking. I will only replace these with more Merrells if I can get them for a really good price.

[@mikel.9133]

I’m more of a timberland guy myself but I do know that merrell is a good brand just because a set of cheap light hiking sneakers don’t hold up to a pair of 300 dollar work boots doesn’t mean the brand is a bad brand and “loosing its soul” if u want to actually compare quality then buy a new pair of 300 dollar work boots and compare them to those old one I bet you won’t be disappointed

[@HeidiHafner]

I've had a pair of Merrell Lady Siren Sport GORE-TEX Waterproof Walking Shoes for 3 or 4 years and I love them! I had one issue where a grommet broke off about a year ago. I fixed that and they've been fine ever since. The insoles wore out about a year to year & a half ago, so I replaced those. I use them every day for everything from walking to climbing, etc. I've tried to find the same pair because they're super comfortable. These were made in China as well... but surprisingly they've done well. I like how they keep me from rolling my ankles and they are super lightweight. I have back problems, so these have worked pretty well. Unfortunately, I need to replace them...

[@kevinsteele7232]

I have worn Merrell shoes and boots for over 15 years and never had an issue with longevity. I use them not just for hiking, but when renovating houses - doing every job imaginable (often on hands and knees, where the boots get really scuffed), they get covered in all sorts of building debris, and they last for ages. One pair lasted me for 3 house renovations over 3 years. They are better than heavy duty work boots and outlast anything Salomon or North Face. I also have Merrell casual shoes and trainers. I'm 15 stone and I'm hard on my footwear. They are the best.

[@millerdumaoal1456]

I've had the Merrell Blaze for almost a year now, i wear them almost every other day. they are amazing.

[@kevarosenberg]

I have various merrell shoes and they wear out differently. Some the sole is harder and others softer. The harder soul looks new after lots of walking and the softer soles have worn down after only a few occasions just casually travelling across town. Because I love how those look I keep them just to wear when I'm going out sometime because otherwise those would be kaput

[@ashleyphotog]

Merrell haven't made descent off-road footwear for a while, they're much more of a fashion shoe than a functional one. Few of them have a proper shank for proper stiffness and support under foot, they've designed them to be quite open and soft, with a very soft foot bed so that people initially try them on and like the comfort, with the extra width on most ensuring most people are able to fit their foot inside them, they only do a few functional shoe's/boots which are any good off-road such as the chameleon, Azure or Siren. if you want proper footwear for hiking, Meindl, Scarpa, Lowa, Asolo, Columbia, La Sportiva, Salomon, Burghaus, and even Jack Wolfskin. but ask yourself this, which company would you prefer to get your shoe's from? a company that does lots of different products, or one that only does footwear and is well known for it? But always go for fit first, don't buy purely on reviews or what others say about their own boots. Get Properly Fitted.

[@billblasko1872]

I've had pretty good luck with most I've had. Different models each time. The tactical line sucked the worst for me. Only got about 3 months out of those. The rest did pretty well. I'm flat footed and work on concrete floors about 11 hours per day. Mileage may vary.

[@tylermaple9415]

The original boot you have is a mid-end heavy duty hiker, the chameleon is a "speed hiker" shoe, it will not last as long, it's made to feel light as the idea of it was for it to form to your foot.

[@amyx231]

I was just thinking how well my Merrell shoes (Mary Jane style, women’s) held up. I took it out of the country, in rain and sun. The fabric is starting to fall apart through friction (little toe), but the sole is still nice. Midsole shows wear, compression hairlines.

[@PatriotRebel1776]

BRO IF U WHERE A SHOE EVERY DAY FOR OVER A YEAR WHAT DO U THINK IS GOING TO HAPPEN

[@resolute123]

I bought the footwear on the upper portion. Bought it primarily for waterproof properties. In two weeks waking in dew cover grass it started to soak through. I tried mink oil and it only waterproof for 40 min. In one month the toe covering started to peel off. Never will buy again.

[@rg2265]

There are people who's job is to design the product in such way that it becomes unusable after certain period of time or amount of usage, in my opinion especially clothes. I suppose the same applies to footwear, cars and pretty much everything.

[@oskarjosephson3145]

Few days ago I bought my first pair of Merrell: Crosslander vent at Decathlon shop in Italy. It is strange but I did not find them on the official Merrell website...

[@ionlybluffAA]

I only buy Merrell for the price point. You can't beat the price for what you get. Best budget boots/shoes

[@no_handle_required]

Love my moabs and since REI has a year return policy, I can monitor the quality and get rid of them if they look as if they won't last. I am pretty torqued about paying 140 bucks for a vietnamese shoe though.

[@plmn93]

Merrell has changed because the market has changed. Heavy boots don't sell these days because people don't want them. Why? Because the new lighter shoes are far more comfortable, albeit less durable. If Merrell still only made those clunky boots you love, guess what, they'd probably be out of business. And even those lighter shoes you complain about aren't light enough. The newest trend is trail runners which are even less durable. Is it because the companies are selling out? NO! It's because that's what people want and they are willing to sacrifice durability for comfort. I always love the "sold out" argument. "Oh no, they are making money by making shoes people want. What are they thinking?" Well, they are thinking they need to adjust to consumer demand, which is a better option than going out of business.

[@olive4naito]

It's true. People don't want to spend so much time breaking in their shoes. Give us comfort!

[@paulpurpi9069]

Yup happened to my chameleons,very lightly used,started cracking high on the back of the heel where there is no abrasion?

[@jeffbaker6291]

couldn't agree more. was told by sales rep they sold to wolverine. never been the same since. hello keen, I have a new love for work boot. amazing how well they feel every time I put them on. payed extra 20 bucks for American made version, have been nothing but quality. goodbye merrell. the old stuff was the best, get your shit together and stop reducing your quality. you made a good product, get back to it!

[@HansNature]

The shoe with broken heal. Happen to my right shoe too in front side on the left in right shoe. Both shoes has holes 3 cm long over the thumb, its really strange. I used them 12 months everyday.

[@aron7548]

I was looking for a scrambling/mountaineering shoe and the second and third looked a lot better for that pourpuse than the old one. I can't imagine how some one coud climb in that tank with that hard and thicc soul with those huge things sticking out that woud be a death trap. For every day use yeah sure but for their original pourpuse the second and third are way better.

[@EC-ol8nz]

My first Merrel boots were in 1993 had those for 10 years! Wore them for 8 months out of year in snow! Walked hiked and MTB with em! Wore em out flat the cut ribs in them. Kept working. Had to force myself to give them the last 2 years I had em. 😢 never found replacements for them yet 😳 Tried Lowa👎, New Merrel, and others all crap 😁

[@rabeiro]

Sold its "sole". I get it!

[@mplsatty]

I dig that older boot! And the Griptilian that made a cameo appearance...

[@cincothres]

Well, I have several pairs of Merrell. I only had 1 problem and they replaced them for free. Other than that i have been very happy with my shoes. Sounds like you need a Danner boot. They last a long time and can be resoled.. But shoes don't last for ever. At some point they will wear out. I give My Hiking shoes 1 year, maybe a little longer. But at some point your shoe is going to lose its comfort as well.. I think it better just to replace your shoes every years or so.. Keeps your feet healthy. Especially if your feet sweat a lot like mine. .

[@Dave-ne8sp]

I'm on my second pair of Moab 2s, no complaints. 2nd pair of Jungle Mocs, same. First pair of Moab Vents. Also had 2 pairs of Moab 2 Work with composite toes, now on a different series work boot from Merrell. I love the lack of break in, comfortable all day, no issues. I expect shoes to last a year or more of daily or weekly wear, Merrell has done so. Used to wear Wolverine work boots but the quality dropped 7-8 years ago and then I found Merrell.

[@theaccount628]

Didn’t know these came in kid’s sizes too. Size 7

[@Pete4875]

I agree! I wear the jungle mac. I have to glue the tip on every pair I wear after a set amount of time. The souls are not durable and they don't last they become flat as racing slicks. Cabela's redheads seem to hold out much better.

[@jeffcummins1408]

It sounds like the problem is the Vibram sole. From what I know, it's great for runners; maybe not so much for hikers. The old shoe does not appear to have a Vibram sole.

[@JohnZook78]

ok well i have to agree with you on the cham. thats where it ends. my first pair of merrells i bought were the moab mid gtx and i wore them for 5 plus years. now the cham hiking shoe it was done in 6 months. in fact im about to order my second pair of moab mids

[@stopasking9745]

Spent $140 on a pair of Merrell boots I wore them not even a full winter last year in the soles came detached from the shoe itself they leak like a SIV they're not waterproof as advertised I figured for $140 I would at least get one winter out of them .... never again

[@arbanaskocudo]

I guess quality of all products is getting bad, because companies wants to sell more

[@vernusdraco]

Not good comparison!!! What do you think about Merrell Mattertal Echo Gore-Tex Hiking Boot?

[@SIDEKICKONYOUTUBE]

i had a Merrell hiking shoes it says VIBRAM in there. costed me Php 6,000.00 ( $113 ). i seldom use it. now you would think because its a "hiking" shoes it should be built to withstand rugged terrain and be durable. the freakin sole peeled off by itself after about 30th use. i saw what is holding the sole and im pretty disappointed myself. it seems like some sort of adhesive. it wasn't made for hiking it was made for modeling.

[@aleksandar.calcina]

how many years do you excpect shoes to last? 10 years? of course the quality of shoes years ago isn't the same as nowadays. if they last a year i'm happy.

[@MIBIncomeEncourager]

vibram soles are brilliant.....with many different brands of walking shoes/boots.....one must always check the patent of the sole.....vibram in my experience of walking hundreds of miles in filming hikes/expeditions ....are like goodyear tyres.....better at grinding down so so slowly if at all.....in some cases the vibram soles can be re-placed on a boot also.....one of the best hard wearing sole composites on a boot/walking shoe....

[@seanhudson7499]

Thanks for an honest review. It will help me to make future purchase decisions.

[@2ndSentinel]

Too bad. I had been a big fan off Merrell shoes. Been moving more towards Keen. I've definitely noticed a difference with shoes made in Italy being superior to those made elsewhere. (East Asia).

[@PCLHH]

2ndSentinel Somebody gave me a pair on KEEN sandles, and the soles are like walking on clouds. Really impressed

[@garyaubrey4096]

I usually wear Merrel and get 1 1/2 - 3 years out of them. Last time I tried a pair of Keen and the side blew out in like 9 months. They were more expensive than the Merrrels I usually wear, and comparable in comfort, but Wal-Mart quality in durability. I'll never buy those again.

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

No shoes should be worn every single day, all day. They need to dry out. Buy 2 or 3 pair and rotate them. They will last much longer. I personally have over 6 pair of boots and over 20 pair of shoes. Some are over 20 years old and still look great as they get sporadic use. Most of my Merrells have lasted 15 years with reasonably light use, but many long walks and trails as well.

[@MinimalistMotoLife]

The old pair of Korean made 1980's Merrells I got for free are worlds better in quality than my Chinese made everyday wear Merrells. And are more comfortable and more waterproof on top of it..... When I bought my newer Merrell's(energis mid WP) looked at every new Merrell boot I could find locally, I picked the one with the stiffest sole/shank and it's still softer than any pair of shoes I've owned, all of the newer Merrells seem to be made with light weight being focus rather than being built to last. That's why most of the Merrell boot lineup now has fabric lace loops and super soft/thin soles. They might still make some real boots, but they aren't available at stores like sports authority or cabelas.

[@summitsecuritydoorandlock]

I have noticed the quality seems to be lower. I see everyone saying he's comparing the incongruent products, however that's irrelevant if we simply compare model to model. I've worn merrell for about 15 years and I can attest they don't have the longevity they used too. I love them but am struggling to find a pair perfect for what I used to buy. Might have to buy a different brand for the first time since my teens

[@chaoticcaninejb]

I have used a pair of Merrils for 9months in Afganistan during the hot and cold months.....that was 2005. I still have them and always wear them. They are worn but not one thing or area have failed or excessively worn. I am suprised as I have had osolos keens solomon lowa and other pairs and those shoes never lasted but Merrels have been my go to and proven themselves.

[@murdergorilla4087]

Those are 2 completely different philosophy of use boots. 450-500 miles out of a Moab or chameleon.

[@firewire8912]

Your right though. Doesn't matter where it's made but the quality that its made by.

[@jamiepark888]

I agree. I bought my son a nice pair of Merrell hiking shoes from REI and it fell apart just over a year - a hole 🕳 formed at the bottom of shoe right through the shoe. Merrell replaced them with a different pair as they no longer had the one I originally bought and those fell apart under a year. I gave up bothering to replace them. Sad as they used to be a leader in outdoor shoe wear. It’s not just Merrell - it’s all these companies that moved their factories to China. No knock on the ppl of China but their factories are not known for making quality products. I’m certain they are capable of making quality products in China but Merrell leadership tells their factories to make cheap products for less cost and as you said - so we have to keep buying new shoes.

[@sdemosi]

Apple computer make lots of excellent products in China. Many European brands make good quality products there but you have to maintain high quality control standards, have input into the manufacturing process to ensure the product is durable, and not use cheaper components. The issue with Merrell and some other companies making stuff in China is they are focusing on volume and profit margin over quality.

[@gerardomiranda1613]

Next make a comparison review on that griptilian to the new benchmade freek.

[@charliecorrect2129]

I have four pairs of Merrell shoes the last pair size 8.5us is more like size 7us. The other Merrell are all 8.5us and fit fine. Of course Merrell doesn’t care. Never again will I purchase a Merrell shoe.

[@kinderkev]

i agree. i would expect a pair of walking boots to last more than a year .i had the same problem with my merrell boots had them 6 months and they bust along the side of the toe edge .where your toes bend both boot .tried to send them back but the shop would'nt accept them back because i had them more than a month ? merrell wasnt interesed they said the shop should replace them thats where i bought them from ?? .gutted i only wanted them to replace my boots. i was gutted not because i couldnt get them replaced .but more that these boots where an awesome product at first . nice fit/ well surpportive / waterproof /wicked grip/ nice and comfortable straight out the box. then they broke .i would buy another pair .but i bought addidas instead ?

[@NothingMeek]

One of my best boots were Merrell!

[@Harphoney]

I wear nothing but Merrells to work, I'm standing on concrete all day at work, so comfort and support are a must, a couple days ago, i bought 3 more pair, and wore one pair to work, and after 4 hours, i was walking like i was 90, i went home for lunch, took them off only to discover the shoes had no cushion footbeds in them, so basically i was walking on an extremely flat shoe. Not impressed considering i spent about 130 dollars on them, tg the owner will likely exchange them for others that i already wear or something else. If anyone knows where i can buy the footbeds separately, please send me a link,,ty in advance ! I miss the quality of footwear.

[@Knife1437]

Harphoney Look at the Scholl Orthaheels, they're fantastic. You might have to buy them online from overseas but they're honestly amazing & don't cost too much. Comfort wise, as long as the shoe upper provides support and the sole is good traction & wearing you can't ask for much better. Usually you can buy a cheap pair of shoes and put a good quality orthotic insole in and it can feel better than an expensive shoe, the only difference will be wear.