Merrell Nova 2 Boulder 14 M Review
The Merrell Nova 2 Boulder 14 M is designed for those who crave adventure without compromising on comfort. This shoe strikes a unique balance between the lightweight feel of sneakers and the rugged durability of hiking footwear. Whether you’re hitting the trails or exploring urban landscapes, the Nova 2 promises to keep your feet supported and comfortable.
Features
- Lightweight sneaker design paired with hiker-like durability
- Vibram MegaGrip outsole for superior traction on wet and dry surfaces
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel enhances shock absorption and stability
- Eco-friendly vegan construction
- Lace closure with six pairs of eyelets for a secure fit
Pros
- Exceptional traction suitable for various terrains
- Comfortable cushioning ideal for long walks
- Durable materials ensure longevity
- Easily washable in a machine
- Stylish appearance suitable for casual wear
Cons
- May take some time to break in
- Not as breathable as some dedicated running shoes
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Product | Weight | Traction Type | Water Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merrell Nova 2 Boulder 14 M | Lightweight | Vibram MegaGrip | No |
| Salomon X Ultra 3 | Medium | Contagrip | Yes |
| Adidas Terrex Swift R2 | Lightweight | Adituff | Water Resistant |
Detailed Review
Comfort: The Merrell Nova 2 provides exceptional comfort from the first step. Its sneaker-like design accommodates extended wear without causing discomfort, making it an excellent choice for both short hikes and casual strolls.
Durability: Constructed with a combination of sturdy leather and robust rubber sole, this shoe excels in longevity. It’s built to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities while still looking good enough for everyday wear.
Traction: The standout feature is undoubtedly the Vibram MegaGrip outsole, which offers incredible grip on various surfaces, whether you're navigating slippery rocks or uneven trails. You’ll feel confident taking on different terrains.
Fit: With its lace closure system featuring six pairs of eyelets, you can achieve a customized fit. However, some users report needing a brief break-in period to reach optimum comfort.
Style: The modern aesthetics of the Nova 2 make it a versatile option. It can easily transition from outdoor adventures to casual outings without skipping a beat.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Excellent cushioning and support for all-day wear. |
| Durability | 4.7/5 | Built with high-quality materials ensuring lasting performance. |
| Traction | 4.8/5 | Outstanding grip on multiple surfaces, offering confidence during hikes. |
| Style | 4.4/5 | Stylish design suitable for both outdoor and casual wear. |
User Reviews
I bought a few shoes for my husband to choose from including adidas, new balance and Merrell. My husband has quite wide feet and said the adidas were too narrow, the green new balances I got were nice but his favorite were these merrells. They are super comfortable and well made. It is nice to get my husband some color in his footwear since he always chooses black or brown for himself. This gives him some color in the green and blue trim but it’s not too wild where he wouldn’t wear it. My son is modeling the rainbow merrells too but ultimately decided he wanted the teal ones in Merrell’s other style with the strap for kids.
They fit well and are comfortable to walk in. I wanted a running shoe for trails, and it was okay, but I found a cheaper shoe that is even better and keeps my back out of pain on those running trails so had to return these,
I bought these as hiking shoes and didn’t even get a month out of them. One of the tabs that you use to lace the shoes ripped off and now they are unwearable. Definitely a waste of money for me.
Merrell finally gave my husband some color in his shoe wardrobe. Merrell's fit well and last FOREVER. Highly recommend