The Advantages of Merrell Shoes
Merrell shoes offer considerable advantages over standard trainers, with a host of technologies designed to give the maximum possible performance, with the minimum weight, at a down to earth price. Extensively tested throughout the four seasons on punishing New England terrain, Merrell are sure that their shoes give you the maximum advantage for all off-road travel.
Merrell shoes are constructed from the inside out to ensure that they give the most comfortable fit. The shoes are wide in the toe box so as not to cramp the feet, and feature a tailored fit for men and women. Taking a gender specific last based on an average foot as the model for the construction of the shoes, they add a footbed and lining which matches the anatomy of the foot to give excellent support and a secure and tight fit. The footbed is anatomically shaped for comfort, constructed by the world leader in insole design, Ortholite. The linings are highly breathable to offer great moisture management to keep the feet perfectly cool and dry, with anti-microbial treatments to ensure bacteria and fungi do not get a foot in your shoes.
With the fit ensured, Merrell turn their attention to cushioning and shock absorption. Running the length of the foot in the midsole lays the Merrell Air Cushion, a highly responsive EVA foam construction to take the shockwaves out of walking, whilst providing a firm and comfortable base for stability. At the rear of the shoe, an EVA foot frame secures the heel, and acts as reinforcement for the shoes. With the heel prevented from slipping you can always be sure of your footing. However for the rigours of off road walking and hiking, extra reinforcements are added to the instep to add greater protection to both the shoe and the foot for punishing rocky terrain.
The uppers are constructed to keep everything in place, pulling the shoe closely onto the foot for a tight and secure fit. Constructed from highly breathable fabrics, they promote air flow to the feet to maintain good temperature control, and facilitate the escape of steam to keep the feet dry. To prevent external water from getting into the shoes, many models offer a Gore-Tex lining for total waterproofing. Finally Merrell develop a tread pattern out Vibram rubber to give exceptional off road grip with a good balance of stickiness for traction and durability for a long life.