Merrell Womens MQM Flex 2 Hiking Shoe Review
The Merrell womens MQM Flex 2 Hiking Shoe is designed for those who crave speed on the trail without compromising protection. This innovative shoe combines the agility of a trail runner with the sturdy support of a hiking boot, making it an ideal choice for various terrains. With a focus on durability and comfort, it features a tear-resistant upper and a flexible cushioned midsole that adapts to your foot's movements. The mountain-grade outsole provides excellent traction, ensuring you stay steady on your feet as you navigate rocky paths.
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Features
- Mesh and TPU upper for lightweight strength
- Integrated lacing system for a snug, glove-like fit
- Bellows tongue to keep out debris
- Protective toe cap for added safety
- Breathable mesh lining for optimum ventilation
- Kinetic Fit BASE removable contoured insole for flexible support
- Rock plate for enhanced underfoot protection
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- FLEXconnect dual-directional flex-grooves in the midsole for improved ground connection
- Merrell mountain-grade Quantum Grip rubber outsole for superior traction
Pros
- Lightweight design suitable for long hikes
- Excellent cushioning and support
- Great traction on various surfaces
- Breatheable material keeps feet cool
- Flexible enough for easy movement
Cons
- Some users might find the sizing runs small
- Limited color options available
- Not waterproof, which may be a concern in wet conditions
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Merrell MQM Flex 2 | Shoemaker Trailblazer | Salomon X Ultra 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Medium weight | Lightweight |
| Upper Material | Mesh and TPU | Full synthetic | Waterproof synthetic |
| Cushioning | Flex cushioned | Standard | Enhanced |
| Traction | Quantum Grip | All-terrain | Contagrip |
Detailed Review
Comfort: One of the standout features of the Merrell MQM Flex 2 is its exceptional comfort level. The Kinetic Fit BASE insole provides flexible support, adapting to your foot shape as you move. Whether you're trekking uphill or navigating uneven terrain, you'll appreciate the cushioned feel that helps reduce fatigue during longer hikes.
Fit: The integrated lacing system delivers a secure fit that wraps around your foot like a glove. However, some users have noted that the sizing can run a bit smaller than expected, so it's advisable to try them on or consult the size chart before purchasing.
Performance: With its mountain-grade Quantum Grip outsole, this shoe excels in providing traction on a variety of surfaces, from slippery rocks to muddy trails. The rock plate offers added protection against sharp objects underfoot, giving you confidence as you tackle challenging routes.
Durability: Built with tear-resistant athletic uppers, the Merrell MQM Flex 2 is designed to withstand rugged use. While not specifically waterproof, the materials used are durable enough to handle light splashes and damp conditions.
Style: Aesthetically, the shoe has a modern look that blends well with both outdoor gear and casual wear. Available in limited colors, you may want to consider this if style is a core concern for you.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and fit for long hikes. |
| Performance | 8.5/10 | Impressive traction and durability on various terrains. |
| Durability | 8/10 | Tear-resistant materials, but not fully waterproof. |
| Style | 7.5/10 | Modern design with limited color options. |
User Reviews
There shoes have been really comfortable. Great arch support.
Bought 2 pair of similar, but these don’t have wide heels for balance!Am sure will be ok!
I was looking for a waterproof trail shoe for rainy Costa Rica. I wore this shoe (size 7) around the house with thicker socks. I found the toe ball more narrow than the ASICS (size 7) I wear every day. I liked the look and weight of this shoe. Treads were a good size. However, I opted for another trail shoe with a wider toe ball.
These shoes are cute, super comfortable and absolutely perfect for hiking/trail running and WILL keep your feet dry against a light rain or dew/condensation on the ground, but they are not gore tex level waterproof... I purchased them for hiking in the north Georgia mountains, but recently took them on a fishing trip to the Pacific Northwest and my feet were soaked after fishing on a boat all day (BUT the shoes did dry out super fast!) If you need a fully waterproof shoe, look for something with gore tex, but for a basic hiking shoe, I highly recommend!
I love Merrell's and the MQM Flex and have had multiple pairs over the last few years. But this 2nd version, MQM Flex 2, is way too narrow and tight. I'll be returning these.
Nice shoe. Good for daily dog walking.
These are one of the best trail hiking shoes I’ve ever had. This is the second pair I bought and love them.
My second pair of this style Merrill don’t disappoint