What Are Merrell Shoes Good For? (Will They Work For You?)
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Merrell shoes are really good for the outdoors. Merrell has built their brand around making quality shoes that allow people to get out and explore. Merrell footwear offers comfort, traction, cushioning, and durability, while still providing the stability that serious outdoor enthusiasts need.
They are for people who want more out of their shoes. For those who aren’t willing to sacrifice comfort for style. Merrell footwear gives you the features you want in a shoe, along with timeless style.
Walking, hiking, running, mountain biking, fitness training…just about any type of active sport you can throw at them. They are also great for cool weather or rainy days.
Whether you’re walking, trekking, or running; out on the town or heading to the trails; relaxing at home, or living life to the fullest; Merrell shoes and boots offer solutions to take on your day.
Their passion is footwear innovation. From walking the Camino de Santiago to running marathons around the world to seeking out remote waterfall trails, this shoe brand strives for continual improvement; designing our products to make every step taken healthier and more enjoyable.
Let’s look at some individual things Merrell Shoes are good for…
Are Merrell Shoes Good For Plantar Fasciitis?
People suffering from Plantar Fasciitis for years have spoken out about how they finally found relief when they began wearing Merrell Shoes.
Merrell shoes offer many advanced features to help with plantar fasciitis conditions. Most of the technology is found in the soles of the shoe.
Merrell shoes are comfortable to wear due to the cushioning that is built into them. All of Merrell’s shoes have shock absorption, arch support, and motion control, which is great for people with plantar fasciitis. The nature of these shoes is more supportive than your average flat-footed shoe.
The Merrell shoes that consistently get a mention for how brilliant it is for people with Plantar Fasciitis is the Merrell Men’s Jungle Moc Slip-On Shoe and the Merrell Women’s Jungle Moc Mountaineering Boot.
When I saw how often the Merrel Jungle Moc was mentioned as a recommendation for Plantar Fasciitis I went over to Amazon and checked what reviewers had to say Oh My, I have never seen such astounding feedback before.
First, I checked the men’s, and every single person who mentioned Plantar Fasciitis had glowing statements about how this shoe is fantastic for this conditioner.
Unbelievable EVERYONE agreed but it gets even more spooky because then I checked the women’s shoe and it was the same. EVERYONE with Plantar Fasciitis loved this shoe.
It’s rare for everyone to get such excellent results from a shoe. I’m almost beside myself over this and it is such a rare result. Even rarer is that men and women both agreed. I’m not trying to be funny here because I’ve lost count of the number of times women have been happy with a shoe and men haven’t. And vice versa.
It’s to be expected really. We are built differently. Men are usually heavier. Our foot shapes vary, etc. But with this shoe people with Plantar Fasciitis were 100% in agreement – this shoe helps.
Are Merrell Sandals Good For Plantar Fasciitis?
Merrell sandals are great for feet with plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation in the sole of the foot which causes heel pain, pain in the arch of the foot, or pain when trying to walk.
A comfortable pair of Merrell sandals can help reduce this pain caused by plantar fasciitis with its shock-absorbing, lightweight design.
Merrell is the number one choice for people that suffer from plantar fasciitis because of their wide toe box that allows your toes to move naturally, Merrell’s proprietary shock-absorbing technology, and Merrell’s TrailProtect pad which offers protection without altering the sandal’s flexibility.
The combination of the outdoor-inspired design and the Merrell quality will definitely make this a pair of sandals you can use in any situation. They are so comfortable that they will be your go-to pair of shoes, which is essential when you have plantar fasciitis.
Is there one sandal that stands out more than the others? I’m glad you asked… because once again I checked out what people had to say and while all the sandals had good feedback about plantar fasciitis none had the share volume of comments and the overwhelming glowing comments as the Merrell Women’s Terran Lattice II Sandal.
- I have been fighting painful plantar fasciitis for months and these had great support and I didn’t limp wearing them.
- They are the only sandal I have found that I can wear and walk in for periods without flaring up my plantar fasciitis.
- Merrell is my go-to sandal for support for plantar fasciitis.
- I have plantar fasciitis that practically cripples me but I was able to walk around the entire Sandiego zoo for 6 hours wearing these!
Are Merrell Hiking Shoes Good For Plantar Fasciitis
Once again when it comes to plantar fasciitis Merrell’s come to the fore with their hiking boots and in particular the Moab boots. The Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID Waterproof Hiking Boot
Merrell is the epitome of practical shoes. If you deal with plantar fasciitis, Merrell hiking shoes are a godsend. Tough enough to take on any terrain, Merrell shoes are designed with tough, yet breathable uppers that help defeat foot fatigue.
They also boast support for the arch area and a large toe box that accommodates bunions and hammertoes too. Additional features like Merrell air cushion in the heel area, slim profile toe cap, and lacing harness that eliminates pressure points make the hiking shoes perfect for plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Are Merrell Shoes Good For Walking?
Merrell shoes are great for walking. Merrell offers the perfect fit for the shape of your foot. Merrell is designed with comfort and quality in mind across their entire product line. In fact, all of the shoes mentioned above that offer great support for plantar fasciitis are also highly rated as walking shoes.
Merrell makes quality, fashionable shoes that are really good for walking. Merrell’s is the only brand that is designed to protect your heel from excess shock while still being lightweight, comfy, and stylish!
Their patented air cushion system absorbs the force of landing on your heels for added comfort.
Are Merrell Shoes Good For Hiking?
When you’re deep into the backcountry and miles from civilization, don’t you want to know that you can rely on your shoes?
Merrell’s hiking shoes are designed for active wear, with comfort and durability in mind. Hikers love them for their slip-resistant outsole and grippy traction pads, which make it easier to ascend slopes and keep you stable while descending.
We have already mentioned the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Merrell Men’s Moab 2 MID Waterproof Hiking Boot. They are both ultra-impressive hiking boots.
Merrell hiking shoes and shoes for other outdoor activities are among the best because of their reputation for innovative design and durable construction.
Merrell shoes primarily focus on comfort, but they also feature waterproof materials, Gore-Tex fabric, and many other such features that you’ll find to be ideal for hiking or backpacking.
Hikers love them for their comfort and lessened fatigue. They last a long time, and absorb shock well from the ground, reducing the stress on the joints of the foot.
Plus, the rubber sole is durable enough to withstand harsh conditions while the moisture-wicking mesh or synthetic materials help reduce moisture for better breathability.
Are Merrell Shoes Good For Wide Feet?
Merrell shoes are easily some of the most comfortable shoes on the market today. Their comfort level is second to none, which is why they are great for people with wide feet.
However, while Merrell shoes are generally comfortable, every person has different sized feet and unique features about them; therefore it is important to take time when trying on a pair.
If you want Merrell quality in a wide variety of out-front comfort, look no further than Merrell wide shoes. From the most comfortable performance hiking boots to wide walking footwear, these high-performance meshes, leather, and waterproof shoes will give you true mobility and durability you can count on whether you’re exploring trails or city streets.
Are Merrell Shoes Good For Running?
Merrell men’s and women’s shoes are designed for a variety of activities, from jogging to hiking, to working out in the gym or at a health center. From casual comfort to performance footwear, Merrell delivers a total fit experience with every pair.
So Merrell Running Shoes are good for… wait for it… running. I’m not being smart here I just want to make sure you understand that Merrell has specific shoes that are good for running. It is not like their sandals or hiking boots are good for running for example.
You might be able to run in the hiking boots in an emergency (like a bear chasing you) but in general, only the Merrell runners are good for running.
There are a lot of choices when it comes to running shoes. Merrell shoes are built with technology that inspires you to move with comfort, confidence, and style.
Are Merrell Shoes Good For Flat Feet?
The shoes mentioned above in the plantar fasciitis section are also just as popular for those with flat feet. Merrell is known for its comfort if you have flat feet. This style has higher arch support than other brands without sacrificing the comfort or style of the shoe.
Merrell Shoes are good for people with flat feet because they are functional, with the right amount of support and cushioning. The shoes are not only comfortable but also stylish.
The materials used for these shoes are soft leather upper with mesh panels to keep the feet cool in summer and warm in winter. The insole is made of Merrell’s proprietary Barefoot technology, which allows flexibility in all directions. This technology reduces the load on the joints by letting the feet move naturally.
Merrell Shoes provide excellent support to your feet by keeping them in a neutral position. Merrell shoes are good for flat feet. But they are also good for arches, bunions, high ankles, wide forefeet, narrow heels, and many other things.
The reason is that the design of Merrells is different from other shoes. Their design does not try to support your foot in the way you would expect a shoe to do. Instead, it supports the way your foot is supposed to work.
In summary, Merrell’s is a very impressive shoe brand. I love it when I start researching what a particular brand of shoes is like and come across such a standout footwear company for so many types of shoes, boots, sandals, and running shoes.
You can’t help but feel excited about the options this company provides and when they boast about providing comfortable shoes they sure do live up to that claim.
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A Comprehensive Guide to the Merrell Return Policy
Did you order shoes from Merrell only to have them come in the wrong size? Or did you buy apparel from a Merrell store, but you got a damaged piece? You’re not alone—many consumers face the same issues.
This article provides a detailed guide to how the Merrell return policy works and how to return your unwanted items effortlessly. If you want to avoid the hassle of doing it yourself, use DoNotPay to draft and send a return request in a matter of minutes!
How Does the Merrell Return Policy Work?
Merrell’s return policy states that you can return your new and unworn shoes and apparel within 30 days of the shipping date. You should pack all unwanted products in the original packaging and attach a return shipping label to the parcel.
If you want your money back, all purchases are refunded to the card that you used to make the purchase. Keep in mind that Merrell deducts a fee of $5 from the refund for the shipping cost.
Check the table below for all the ways you can start the return process with Merrell:
| Can You Initiate a Return Via | Yes/No |
|---|---|
| DoNotPay | Yes |
| No | |
| Phone | Yes (if your item is damaged or defective) |
| Website | Yes |
| In person | No |
| Live Chat | Yes (if your item is damaged or defective) |
Can I Return a Defective Product?
A defective product has a manufacturing or design flaw. According to Merrell, the following examples are not considered defective:
- Any item that has been damaged and worn out in daily usage
- Products that are damaged due to improper storage
- Items that are not the right fit or are not comfortable enough
In case you received a defective product or your order was damaged during transit, contact Merrell’s Customer Support team in the following ways:
- Call them at 1-800-288-3124
- Use the Live Chat feature on Merrell’s website to speak to a representative
The company’s rep will explain the return process to you, depending on the issue.
Do Merrell Products Come With a Warranty?
Merrell provides a one-year warranty for all its products. If the Merrell team finds their product to be defective, they will reimburse you for repairs and even offer a replacement. This is only applicable to products sold by Merrell or official Merrell authorized retailers.
You need to fulfill the following terms and conditions to claim the warranty on any Merrell product:
- You must have a valid receipt to confirm that your item is eligible for the warranty claim
- If a physical inspection is required, the Merrell team will issue a return authorization (RA) number and mailing instructions
- You need to pay the shipping cost
Merrell takes approximately six to eight weeks to process warranty claims.
How To Initiate a Merrell Return Request
Currently, you can only initiate return requests on the official Merrell website. Before sending the parcel back to Merrell, here are the steps you need to take:
- Visit Merrell’s official website
- Go to the Returns and Exchanges page
- Click on Start My Return
- Provide information about your order
- Tap on Next
- Answer a few queries about your order
- Follow the prompts to get the shipping label
- Print the label and attach it to the parcel that contains the items you want to return
- Ship it to Merrell from the nearest FedEx location
How Long Do Merrell’s Returns Take?
Once Merrell’s Returns department receives the product, they inspect it to ensure that the product has not been worn or damaged in any way. You will receive a confirmation email from Merrell within two weeks to confirm that they have initiated your return process. The refunded amount will appear on your original mode of payment within two billing cycles.
Finding It Difficult To Return Items to Merrell? Use DoNotPay To Send a Return Request
Does the return process seem too much to bother with? Skip it and turn to DoNotPay to make your life easier! Our app ensures a smooth process with easy-to-follow steps. With our Return My Purchase feature, you can request a return in a few clicks!
Here’s what you need to do:
Once we’ve received all the information, our app will generate a customized return request letter to send to Merrell. We will set a deadline to make sure the company resolves the issue as soon as possible.
We will also provide a free shipping label to place on your parcel and avoid the hassle of getting one from Merrell’s website.
That’s not all! Our learning center has information on return policies of various retailers and brands, such as:
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Oboz vs Merrell Hiking Shoes: Which Brand is Better?
Are you looking for a pair of durable hiking shoes that won’t let you down no matter how rugged your trails are? If that’s the case, you’ve probably run into these two names during your research – Oboz and Merrell.
Both of these companies are held in high regard by millions of outdoor enthusiasts everywhere around the world, as they both design, manufacture, and sell top-of-the-line trekking shoes. But which one of them is better? Let’s find the answer to that question together!
Table of Contents
Oboz Footwear – A General Overview
The Background
The very first Oboz trekking shoe was created in Bozeman, Montana, in 2008. It was established by an experienced entrepreneur called John Connelly, who noticed the increased need for quality trekking shoes in the region and who already had some previous experience in creating and running businesses.
With the city of Bozeman being completely surrounded by mountainous terrain, it is quite easy for Oboz’s employees to test-drive every shoe and boot they design in the best way possible. The people who work for this company are outdoorsmen, trekkers, runners, walkers, and much more. They create footwear that both their customers and they themselves can use, ensuring each pair’s safety, durability, and comfort.
One particular thing that puts Oboz above its competition is the brand’s impressive respect for the environment. This is one of those companies that really do their best to make the shoemaking process as eco-friendly and sustainable as possible. Believe it or not, Oboz plants a tree for every purchased pair of trekking shoes, and in that way, makes a real impact on our planet.
With each passing year, the technology improves, and this brand keeps finding new ways to design and manufacture phenomenal trekking shoes while at the same time reducing its impact on the environment.
The Manufacture
For its footwear, Oboz uses a variety of premium materials. Each of these materials looks and functions differently, depending on the shoe’s style. For example, most of the footwear made by Oboz features an upper that uses either some synthetic material, a performance mesh, or high-quality Nubuck leather.
When making insoles, on the other hand, Oboz tries to achieve the perfect fit and form by evaluating copies made by real human feet. One particular technology that the brand is quite famous for is the so-called O FIT Insole technology.
The company’s outsoles often feature unique tread designs that provide outstanding balance, excellent traction, and a supportive grip. The midsoles, on the other hand, are rigid but lightweight, which makes them flexible enough to allow for easy movement. They still, however, provide a satisfactory amount of support.
Where Does Oboz Make its Hiking Shoes?
The company’s headquarters are in Bozeman, Montana, at the corner of Wallace Avenue and Olive Street. However, the brand’s products are manufactured in Vietnam.
Are Their Shoes True to Size?
Yes, Oboz boots and shoes run true to size. You shouldn’t have any trouble getting them in your size. However, if possible, the best practice would be to try on the pair you’re looking to buy at your local retailer, before purchasing it.
Is Oboz Worth the Money?
Yes, they are. Those who opt for this brand will have to pay more, but they’ll also be paying for better quality. All Oboz shoes are very well-made and they are worth every penny of their price.
Popular Products Oboz Hiking Shoes
Oboz Sawtooth II Low Shoes
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb
- Dimensions: 3” x 4” x 7”
- Colors Available: 5
These Oboz trekking shoes feature a wide toe box and a stiff heel counter. The wide toe box keeps the wearer’s upper foot from feeling strained, while the heel counter keeps the blisters at bay by preventing the feet from sliding around (but you may want to check out our post on blister prevention as well before you head out to the trail).
The upper of this shoe is made out of the combination of abrasion-resistant textile and Nubuck leather, and there is also a Sawtooth outsole, Sawtooth midsole, and the O-FIT insole. All in all, a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros:
- The proprietary insole provides excellent comfort
- Outstanding traction – great for off-trail use
- Durable construction
Cons:
- The fit is not for everyone
Oboz Sypes Low B-Dry Shoes
Specifications:
- Weight: 8 oz
- Dimensions: 2” x 4” x 6”
- Colors Available: 4
Here we have yet another great pair of Oboz trekking shoes. Just like the Sawtooth II shoes described above, these also feature the company’s proprietary O-FIT insoles – with these shoes, comfort and stability are guaranteed.
Other features worth mentioning are the durable Cordura fabric, lightweight midsoles that use the brand’s Adaptive Cushioning Technology (ACT), as well as the B-Dry membrane which is both breathable and waterproof.
Pros:
- Effective waterproofing treatment
- Great for all-around use
- Aggressive lugs
Cons:
- Somewhat tight fit
Oboz Bridger Low B-Dry Shoes
Specifications:
- Weight: 6 oz
- Dimensions: 4” x 10” x 6”
- Colors Available: 2
As their name suggests, these Oboz trekking shoes use the company’s proprietary B-Dry technology to keep your feet dry and warm. What is more, they also feature Granite Peak midsoles and outsoles – these provide an amount of traction and support that is necessary for multi-day backpacking trips.
The upper, on the other hand, is made out of Nubuck leather, and the shoes also feature the well-known O-FIT insoles. In summary, another fantastic pair of Oboz hiking shoes.
Pros:
- Perfect for multi-day backcountry hikes
- Excellent traction & support
- Waterproof but breathable
Cons:
Merrell Footwaer – A General Overview
best trekking shoes and boots.
The Background
Also based in the United States, Merrell was established by John Schweizer, Randy Merrell, and Clark Matis more than 40 years ago, in 1981. Back then, John Schweizer and Clark Matis were working for a ski company and they knew everything about the importance of having a pair of well-made outdoor shoes.
With the help of Randy Merrell, a successful maker of luxurious boots, they set off on a journey of making footwear that was supposed to be both affordable and high-performing. Two years after they founded Merrell, the guys packed up and shipped off their best trekking shoes to a few outdoor gear stores on the East Coast, and the rest is history.
However, even despite the brand’s success, Randy Merrell decided to sell his share of the company once he realized that he prefers a quiet life of luxurious boot customization. A few years later, Merrell was sold to Karhu, and in 1997, it became a subsidiary of the Wolverine World Wide label.
Nowadays, Merrell’s footwear is still being manufactured from premium materials, just like in the early 1980s. But the brand now also designs and sells a number of other products, such as sandals, sneakers, and various accessories.
The Manufacture
It goes without saying, but this brand uses durable, premium-quality materials for its trekking shoes, boots, and other similar products. Some of these materials include Italian metal hardware, strong and water-resistant full-grain leather uppers, as well as traction-controlling and slip-resistant Vibram outsoles.
Merrell’s boots provide trekkers with rubber soles. Their job is to absorb the shock that comes with each step as well as to provide the hiker’s feet with the necessary support. The cushioned heel, on the other hand, provides much-needed comfort.
Also, just like its rivals, Merrell has developed a number of its own, proprietary technologies. These include M-Select Grip, M-Select Dry, M-Select Warm, M-Select Wind, M-Select Wick, and others. If you want to check out more brands like Merrell, check out our Salomon vs Merrell comparison and our Keen vs Merrell comparison.
Where Does Merrell Make its Hiking Shoes?
During four decades of Merrell’s existence, the brand’s shoes have been manufactured in many different places. At the moment, most of this company’s footwear is made in Asia and the USA.
Are Their Shoes True to Size?
Most people consider Merrell shoes to be true to their size, and I tend to agree with them. They fit as they should and you shouldn’t have any issues with them size-wise.
Is Merrell Worth the Money?
Merrell products are exceptionally well-made and often come at fair prices. As far as I’m concerned, this brand’s shoes are absolutely worth the money. They will last you for years as long as you take proper care of them.
Popular Merrell Hiking Shoes
Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Shoes
Specifications:
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Dimensions: 10” x 15” x 6”
- Colors Available: 8
There’s a lot to like about these phenomenal Merrell trekking shoes. They are exceptionally durable, provide great traction, and feel very comfortable on most types of trails. In my opinion, they’re a great choice for folks who prefer easy to moderate day hikes.
A very important thing to keep in mind here is that these shoes really weren’t built for carrying sizable loads. Furthermore, they’re not the lightest shoes of this type around and they’re not that great when it comes to water resistance, even though their name suggests otherwise.
Pros:
- Very comfortable & no break-in period required
- Above-average traction
- Robust construction
Cons:
- Not for serious backpacking
Merrell Moab 2 Vent Shoes
Specifications:
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Dimensions: 10” x 15” x 6”
- Colors Available: 18
Not many trekking shoes available on today’s market are as popular as these. Merrell’s Moab 2 Vent shoes provide its wearer with out-of-the-box comfort, but also with great traction and breathability.
This shoe works great for short, moderate hikes due to its Vibram TC5+ outsole, a nylon shank, an EVA midsole, and a thick upper made out of mesh and suede leather. Moab 2 Vent effortlessly hugs wet and dry rocks and has no trouble with handling daily wear and tear.
Pros:
- Affordable but exceptionally well-made shoes
- Very breathable (for the price)
- Incredibly comfortable
Cons:
Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Boots
Specifications:
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Dimensions: 14” x 11” x 5”
- Colors Available: 3
For the price it comes at, this winter boot has quite a lot to offer. While it’s not as warm as I expected it to be, it is very comfortable and also provides above-average traction. These boots are also reasonably protective, especially if we take their (relatively low) cost into account.
The soft fleece lining creates a very cozy environment for one’s foot, while the aggressive tread pattern works wonders on slippery terrains. If you’re someone who does a lot of walking in the snow, the Thermo Chill Mid Boots are an excellent option.
Pros:
- Sharp & angular lugs provide outstanding traction
- A great choice for those on a budget
- Phenomenal comfort & fit
Cons:
Oboz vs Merrell Hiking Shoes The Verdict
I’ve had the privilege of hiking the Camino de Santiago twice, walking up Ben Nevis, and spending three weeks hiking in the Candian Rockies. I love the peace that comes from getting out of the cities I have lived in to enjoy hikes of all lengths in various countries.
1 thought on “Oboz vs Merrell Hiking Shoes: Which Brand is Better?”
I’ve purchased 2 pair of Merrell and one oboz in the last 10 years. Both Merrell have failed, one had the sole completely separate and the other had a lace loop break. I’m still wearing the oboz and plan on buying another, but won’t buy another Merrell. My vote is for oboz.
Source https://tacticsforwinners.com/merrell-shoes-good-for/
Source https://donotpay.com/learn/merrell-return-policy/
Source https://www.caminoadventures.com/blog/oboz-vs-merrell/