
That said, there were a few nits I had to pick despite my overall sense of satisfaction. Any trail running footwear that can provide the level of performance that the MQM Flex 2 has is likely to find a loyal audience. In case you hadn’t noticed, I’m a fairly big fan of these shoes. Serious runners will most likely want to reserve them for that activity alone, but others will find plenty of other excuses to put these comfy shoes on their feet. This versatile set of footwear also makes a great running errands shoe or working around the yard shoe. The MQM Flex 2 made it easier to take my eyes and mind off the ground and commune more with nature instead.īecause of the comfort and stability that the MQM Flex 2 bring to the table, they not only make good trail running shoes but light hiking shoes too. Many times when trail running, I end up being so cautious about the trail that I forget to look around and enjoy the place I’m experiencing. Because of this, I found myself able to focus less on the trail and instead soak up the scenery around me. These trail running shoes also offer great stability, which once again boosts both confidence and speed. The aforementioned Quantum Grip sole flexes nicely as you run, enhancing the runner’s connection with the ground at all times. Not only do they provide plenty of cushioning, but they are also designed to move with your foot as it adjusts to the changing terrain and environment. One of the things that first caught my attention about the MQM Flex 2 is how comfortable they are on your feet. That is an exciting development to keep our eyes on for the future. The membrane integrates nicely into the shoe without adding an appreciable amount of bulk or weight. This material manages to remain incredibly thin without sacrificing a noticeable level of performance. The MQM Flex 2 does use Gore-Tex’s new Invisible Fit technology, which was designed specifically for use in footwear. Because of this, I found my feet occasionally getting warm and sweaty, but usually, this only occurred on warmer days. However, most waterproof membranes still tend to have a hard time keeping moisture out while allowing perspiration to pass through too. Gore-Tex has come a long way towards improving breathability in general in recent years. That said, adding a Gore-Tex liner to a shoe-or any garment for that matter-will cut down on the overall breathability of that product. Whether you’re crossing small streams, running in the rain, or slopping through mud and snow, keeping your feet dry is an essential part of staying comfortable. As you would expect, this gives the shoe a high degree of waterproofing, which is also a nice feature to have out on the trail. While Merrell does make a standard version of the MQM Flex, the model I tested includes a Gore-Tex Invisible Fit waterproof liner. A bellowed tongue helps keep rocks, dirt, and other debris from reaching the shoe’s interior as well, which goes a long way towards preventing abrasions, blisters, and hotspots. Other trail-focused features include an integrated rock plate for added protection, a TPU toe cap that acts as a shield against rocks, and a lacing system that integrates with the tongue to provide a more customizable fit. This helps to provide a higher level of confidence and control, allowing runners to go faster while remaining surefooted. The shoe’s aggressive outsole-a proprietary model, dubbed the “Quantum Grip”-features a pattern of lugs that have been optimized to hold tightly in shift conditions. Much of those same sensibilities have carried over to the company’s line of trail running shoes, including the MQM Flex 2.īuilt to take on dirt, mud, rocks, and even light snow, the MQM Flex 2 efficiently maintains its footing on both wet and dry surfaces. Merrell has a long history of making sturdy, supportive, and well-designed hiking boots, earning themselves a huge fanbase amongst casual and serious hikers alike. Check Price on Made for the Trail (Merrell MQM Flex 2)
