Merrell Women's Speed Eco Hiking Shoe Review: Perfect Blend of Comfort and Eco-Friendliness
The Merrell Women's Speed Eco Hiking Shoe is a testament to how comfort and sustainability can go hand in hand. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an eco-friendly option without compromising on performance, this hiking shoe is made with 77% recycled Jacquard upper materials and is Merrell's most recycled shoe to date. With features that cater to both support and protection, this shoe aims to keep you comfortable on your most adventurous hikes.
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Features
- 77% recycled Jacquard upper
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- 100% recycled laces and webbing
- Molded nylon arch shank for added support
- Bellows tongue to keep out debris
Pros
- Sustainable materials reduce environmental impact
- Excellent shock absorption and stability
- Designed to keep debris out during hikes
- Lightweight and comfortable for long durations
- Machine washable for easy care
Cons
- Fit may be narrow for some users
- Limited color options available
- Not as rugged for extreme terrains compared to other models
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Merrell Women's Speed Eco | Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX | Columbia Women's Crestwood Mid Waterproof |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recycled Materials | Yes | No | No |
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Moderate |
| Waterproof | No | Yes | Yes |
| Comfort Level | High | Medium | High |
Detailed Review
When it comes to hiking shoes, the Merrell Women's Speed Eco shines brightly thanks to its focus on sustainability. The 77% recycled Jacquard upper not only looks stylish but also signifies a commitment to reducing waste. Moreover, the use of 100% recycled laces and webbing further enhances its eco credentials.
Comfort is paramount during long hikes, and the Speed Eco does not disappoint. Its Merrell Air Cushion in the heel provides excellent shock absorption, making those challenging descents feel much easier on your feet. Additionally, the molded nylon arch shank offers superb support, perfect for uneven terrains.
The design also incorporates a bellows tongue, which effectively keeps debris out, allowing you to enjoy your hike without the distraction of small rocks or dirt getting into your shoe. However, potential buyers should note that this model tends to have a narrower fit, so trying them on beforehand would be advisable if you have wider feet.
For maintenance, these shoes are machine washable, ensuring that they remain fresh after countless adventures. While they may not be the most rugged option for extremely tough trails, their lightweight nature makes them ideal for casual hikes and everyday wear.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and support for extended wear |
| Sustainability | 10/10 | Made from 77% recycled materials, setting a new standard |
| Performance | 8/10 | Solid performance on moderate terrains; less suited for extreme conditions |
| Design | 8/10 | Stylish yet functional; needs more color variety |
| Value for Money | 8/10 | Good value considering sustainability and comfort |
User Reviews
As a person with a low arch, I wanted to find max arch support in my next pair of shoes. Other reviews rarely pointed out or showed pictures of the arch support. I wear a size 10 in women’s and they don’t look humongous. They are so comfy and durable for long walks or everyday wear. They also go with pretty much every outfit. Definitely worth the investment with such high quality materials.
Another home run for Merrell shoes! Quality is outstanding, weight is perfect for hiking or other activities, comfort & fit are very supportive - this makes my 6th or 7th pair of Merrells, totally worth the investment.
Unless you have wide feet, these will probably not fit you. I ordered down a half size and they were still too wide for my foot. An 8 medium usually fits me fine in other athletic shoe brands.
I used these shoes for hiking in Yosemite during the winter when there was deep snow covering the trails, higher than my feet. I paired them with thick hiking socks, and I never experienced any water seeping in or cold discomfort in my feet. These shoes are not only waterproof but also incredibly comfortable, and they feel less rigid than typical hiking shoes. I highly recommend them!
Loves these shoes. Very comfortable.
Nice and sturdy for hiking with great support for high arches.
They're well made and run a bit big.
Took these to Egypt and Jordan hiking over desert and mountainous terrain. Great shoe highly recommend