Nova 4 Running Shoe (Men)

I have worn Merrell shoes for years and they have accompanied me from Mexico to Canada and many points in between. My Nova 4 shoes have taken me recently to Niagara Falls where they’ve logged countless steps, gotten soaked in the deluge of Horseshoe Falls, and miles of trail hikes and adventures. My feet are supported and the shoes are comfortable for hours of wear. Sidewalks or trails, they do their job. And they look great, too. Next adventure is Durango, Silverton, and Ouray, Colorado. Let’s go!

This is my first pair of shoes from Merrell. I run regularly and walk about four miles a day, so I was curious to try the brand and see how they performed with frequent use. The overall build quality seems solid, though only time will tell how they hold up long-term. Comfort has been average for me. They perform well on dirt trails and uneven terrain, which is what they’re designed for, but I’ve found them to be surprisingly poor on paved surfaces, especially when wet. Even short stretches of pavement between trails feel slick, and I’ve slipped and fallen more than once. While my feet don’t feel sore, I’m always relieved to take them off at the end of the day. Based on my experience, I won’t be purchasing this model again. These may work for someone who stays strictly on dry trails, but I’d caution anyone who expects to encounter pavement along the way or is looking for a comfortable shoe.