What is the most important gear when it comes to outdoor activities? The shoes! Shoes get more worn out doing outdoor activities, whether it is a sport or just a recreational tour. So before you plan out your next hike or grow a new interest in extreme sports, read this article on Salomon vs Merrell first.
Salomon and Merrell are both renowned footwear brands in sport shoe markets. They have been producing shoes for outdoor activities since the very beginning of their journey. Both offer advanced tech shoes with sleek designs that also deliver comfort and high performance.
With all the varieties in price, design, and materials, it is hard to choose the right pair of shoes from the vast sea of models that both brands offer. If you are new to outdoor activities, then you might find the gear markets overwhelming.
In this article, you will discover reviews of five best-selling shoes from each brand that will help you choose the right pair for your outdoor activity. Keep reading to learn what will suit your feet need the most.
About Salomon
Based in Annecy, France, Salomon started their journey in 1947 and is now one of the largest shoe brands. They produce shoes for runners, climbers, hikers, and other athletics purposes. Recently they have diversified their shoe line but still tend to offer more minimal cushioning. Even the highest cushion shoes of Salomon’s are minimal compared to other brands’ high cushion shoes. This minimal cushioning gives the wearer a more ground feel and a firm ride. Salomon shoes have a higher drop, unlike their competitors’ brands.
A downside of this brand is that Salomon’s shoes are a bit narrow in shape, which can be a problem for people with wider feet. However, Salomon offers some models that come in a much wider shape. Salomon’s road shoes come with a traditional lacing system, while the trail shoes use quick lacing. They also produce waterproof shoes with Gore-Tex or ClimaSalomon technology. Although they deliver excellent weather protection, waterproof shoes are less breathable. Finally, this brand uses their technology, “Contagrip,” for their outsoles, which comes in three variations.
About Merrell
Merrell is an American footwear company that started in 1981 and became well-reputed soon enough. Like Salomon, Merrell also produces shoes for athletes and outdoor activities like hiking, mountaineering. Their shoes offer the perfect combination of performance, comfort, and fit. Merrell considers weight, ventilation, insulation, and cushioning to provide extreme comfort. Merrell’s own “Flexconnect” technology allows the foot to move naturally while running on even the most unstable surface. The air cushion technology reduces stress from the feet with every step using impact-absorbing pods placed under the heel.
The “Comfortable” technology provides breathable cushioning that keeps your feet from tiring and maintains their energy. Merrell considers durability, waterproofing, and breathability when performing in and out of the trail. Their high-performance “Vibram Megagrip” rubber compound makes sure that the shoes will perform well in both dry and wet ground while “GoreTex” technology provides waterproofness. Lastly, the “Boa” fit system provides control, precision, adjusts fittings, and adaptability.
Now let’s take a glance at the strength and weaknesses of both brands.
Salomon vs Merrell- Strength and Weakness:
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Strength |
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Salomon |
Merrell |
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Provides 2 years warranty |
Relatively cheap |
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Advanced technology |
Trendy and stylish |
| Superior insulation system |
Offers more diversity |
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Eco-friendly |
Larger size range |
| Quicklace system |
Eco-friendly |
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Weakness |
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| Comparatively expensive |
Provides only 60 days warranty |
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Limited size range |
Comparatively simpler design |
| Doesn’t come with odor control |
The relatively inferior insulation system |
Here are the five best shoes from both brands that are users’ favorite.
Salomon vs Merrell- 5 Top Seller:
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Salomon |
Merrell |
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Without further ado, let’s start reviewing Salomon vs Merrell with five top-notch products.
Five Top Picks from Salomon
1. X Ultra 3 for the Best Grip:
One of the best sellers, X Ultra mid-GTX ($164.95- $184.07), is made of Descent Control technology that has grown into a better hiking shoe. You can tackle hard-hitting descents wearing these pairs without a fuss. Even on wet ground, X Ultra 3 provides a firm grip. This shoe comes in two ranges, including high and low height. The Gore-Tex Membrane allows them to stay dry in bad weather. If you have no need for waterproofness, you can also buy the version that comes without the Gore-Tex membrane.
The main features of the boot include breathability, even though it is highly waterproof. For enhanced support for your feet, Ultra X 3 comes with an Ortholite footbed/sock liner. They have added a combined toe and mudguard for extra safety during rough hiking. Its Contagrip technology provides a dual rubber outsole for a firmer grip on the wet ground. The amount of sustenance and stability X Ultra 3 offers can be the perfect fit for short hikes or evens more extended trips. Regardless to say, Salomon’s X Ultra 3 made its way into this top five shoe list.
2. Quest 4D 3 for Most Comfort and Durability:
If you are looking for comfort for your feet, Salomon’s Quest 4D 3 (around $230) is the way to go. 4D 3 GTX is all about comfort and stability. Its technology will reduce stress off your feet while you are on a long hike. The 4D chassis gives your feet more flexibility and allows a smoother ride. The adapted technology of running shoes and light cushions keeps your feet happy even after a rough trail hike. Salomon’s shoes aren’t known for featuring odor control. But this pair can prevent bacteria and odors with antimicrobial technology.
Salomon’s Quest 4D 3 includes features like Gore-tex Membrane for waterproofness, which allows you to keep your feet dry in wet/muddy ground or bad weather. For extreme comfort and sturdiness, 4D 3 added midsoles with dual density. The pair also comes with a protective heel cap, mudguard, and toe cap for extra safety. Like many of its other models, Salomon’s Quest 4D GTX features an Ortholite sock liner that provides support and comfort.
The lace locker allows precision by adjusting laces and keeping them locked in place. Quest 4D 3 is unique from the other Quest models because of the 4D chassis it comes with. If the weather condition doesn’t become too harsh, this pair of boots can be an excellent pick for long hikes with its durability, comfort, and waterproofness.
3. S/Lab Ultra 3 for the Runners:
Salomon designed their S/Lab models for the runners. They collect input from professional runners and use that information to develop their S/Lab models. One of the top running shoes of Salomon is S/Lab Ultra 3. Over a long-distance, S/Lab 3 will perform splendidly. This model comes with an energy cell and durable energy-saving midsole that will cushion your feet through long runs. S/Lab 3 is also water-resistant and has an EVA sock liner that will keep your feet snug and cozy.
The Contagrip MA technology outsoles offer terrific traction on uneven ground. The upper SensiFit material supports your feet, while an EndoFit material cradles the foot from the inside and confirms a secure fit. With enhanced breathability, better cushioning, and reduced weight, this third-generation S/Lab is another sure pick from the Salomon brand.
4. Speedcross 5 for Weather Protection:
Salomon’s Speedcross 5 ($145.17- $169.74) is made for powering through bad weather and uneven trail. With a Gore-Tex upper, Speedcross offers excellent water-resistance. Salomon’s shoes aren’t big on plush cushioning. But Speedcross 5 comes with a relatively affluent cushion that will serve the heel strikers well. Speedcross 5 will shine bright on the muddy ground because of its widely spaced, massive lugs that quickly strip dirt and offers good bite.
Since the lugs coves heel to toe, Speedcross also climbs well. The Gore-Tex technology maintains full weather protection while providing comfort and reducing bulk. However, this limits the breathability of the shoes. Its quick lace system provides precision while holding the foot in place.
5. Sense Ride 3 for Better Speed:
A combination of the road race and trail tech, Sense Ride 3 ($119.95- $120.00) is an aggressive and agile trail shoe focused on speed. Sense Ride 3 offers more cushioning than Salomon’s Sense Pro for a rough trainer feel. The double-layered Optivibe midsole allows more comfort while serving better grip and more protection on muddy, rocky, or rough trails. This shoe also features Contagrip outsoles that can tackle wide-ranging ground with unique designed lugs.
Sense Ride 3 also comes with an OrthiLite footbed and a rock plate that serves trail runners adequately. It is now safe to say that Sense Ride 3 is the perfect pick for trail adventurers with its added grip, soft cushioning, and extra protection. This pair also includes anti-debris mesh and a ground filter, making it an excellent choice for trail hikers.
Now Let’s See Five Top Picks from Merrell
1. Moab 2 the Mother of All Hiking Boots:
Merrell calls this pair of shoes the mom of all hiking boots for a reason. Moab 2 ($69.99- $230.26) is a package of durability wrapped in leather, a comfortable footbed, and Vibram technology traction. These boots will genuinely give you the experience of out-of-the-box luxury. These super sturdy and long-lasting synthetic leather-made boots are also eco-friendly. The outsole is made of Vibram TC5, which gives a stable control on the ground.
The M select footbed keeps out water and releases moisture to keep your feet dry. The midsole is cushioned with EVA technology, which is super comfortable for your feet. The mesh lining on the boots makes them entirely breathable. Though the Moab 2 is water-resistant, the M select dry technology is not made for water submersion. Moab has other models, and all of them offer a mid-cut and low-cut style. Hikers should choose a mid-cut style, for it will secure the ankle from twisting.
2. Siren Edge Q2 for the Ladies:
This hiker series is specially made for women, supporting their foot alignment, gender-specific solidity, and the way they move. Siren Edge Q2 ($69.95- $175.03) features odor control with M select outsole that will grip whenever and wherever it is needed. The upper material is a synthetic mesh that allows good breathability.
The insole and midsole are made of Q form 2 technology that supports foot alignment and provides stability. The M-Select Dry will also keep off debris along with delivering water resistance. Although the Siren series offers comfort, it is not made to stand against rough hiking. This casual-looking shoe comes in mid and low heights to provide comfort and stability for you ladies.
3. MQM Ace for the Runners:
Merrell’s MQM Ace ($42.22- $142.38) is an integrated design of both trail runners and hiking shoes. It is more similar to hiking shoes but will provide you with the speed and agility of a trail runner and a hiker’s stability. This shoe is the right choice for hot weather since it offers excellent breathability and ventilation with an antimicrobial coating that will keep off the bacteria and odor.
The TrailPocket plate will provide safety from debris, while the air cushion system will absorb shock from the heel. However, MQM Ace is not waterproof. Other than that, this shoe will be suitable for running on any type of terrain.
4. Hydrotrekker for Trekking on Water:
Merrell’s Hydrotrekker ($42.22- $149.99) is a very lightweight shoe that will allow you to trek through puddles. They dry off pretty quickly but are not entirely waterproof. Do not wear socks if you are going to hike on a watery terrain. The upper material is made of synthetic mesh, and the M select outsole provides excellent traction on a wet surface. The removable insole and hydramorph midsole help drain water quickly.
The multi-directional lugs are suitable for slippery terrain though they won’t serve you that well on the rocky surface. These shoes have a lower-cut than other Merrell shoes and look more like sandals than boots. Hydrotrekker is not suitable for the usual hiking trail though it will give excellent performance on a watery surface.
5. Merrell Alverstone for Comfort and Ease:
The Alverstone’s ($55.97- $167.96) upper is made of suede and mesh, which provide excellent ventilation. This model comes in both waterproof and non-waterproof versions. The flexible M select outsole and 5mm lugs offer plenty of traction and grip on a watery surface. Merrell’s removable Kinetic Fit insole assures arch and heel support. The EVA midsole and nylon shank provide outstanding steadiness.
This pair also features a bellows tongue to keep out debris and a rounded toe cap to give safety from obstacles on the path. Putting these shoes on and off is made incredibly easy because of the Quicklace system.
Best of Both Brands:
If you are still doubtful and confused about which shoes to get for your outdoor activities, let me suggest one model from both brands. For the Salomon brand, Speedcross 5 is the winner. Speedcross can be the first pick for any extreme hiking lover with its thorough water resistance and weatherproof feature since it is also extremely durable.
And for Merrell, Moab 2 will win the battle. Passionate hikers will benefit the most from this pair if they keep away from a daring adventure on trails. Moab 2 is durable and comfortable enough to wear all year round.
Final Verdict
If you are reading this brand comparison between Salomon vs Merrell before hitting the market for shoes, I hope you know what to get for your happy feet now. Different people will focus on different specifications. Choose what suits your need the most.
Both brands offer first-rate outdoor sporting shoes that come in various price ranges. If you are a regular hiker, then do not hesitate to buy an expensive pair, for they are also rich in performance and comfort.
Both brands deliver various series and models of shoes with brilliant stability, extreme comfort, and superb performance. Now it is up to you to decide which pair to buy to treat your feet.
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