Is this what the future of hiking looks like?
6.6.2024
Translation: machine translated
Until now, the Merrell brand was mainly known for its robust, waterproof hiking boots with a traditional look and for its barefoot shoes. Merrell is now turning this image on its head. The manufacturer won an award at "Outdoor by ISPO 2024" for new hiking boots with a futuristic look.
A little bit urban chic, a little bit spaceship fashion - that's the look of the new Merrell hiking boots with the not exactly catchy name "SpeedARC Surge Boa". At the outdoor trade fair in Munich, where classic, functional looks dominated, they definitely stood out from the crowd.
Shoes for a young target group
The ISPO jury rewarded the courage to try something completely new visually in outdoor footwear with an award. "The look and feel of the Merrell SpeedARC Surge Boa are forward-looking without compromising on performance," said the jury in its statement. "This new school hiker gives an outlook on how hiking shoes could be defined for new and younger target groups," explained the jury members.
Technical materials for comfort and performance
The judges particularly praised the sole, which is made of nitrogen-injected foam and is said to offer good cushioning and responsiveness while being lightweight. The intermediate plate made of nylon should also ensure high stability
For the upper, the US brand Merrell relies on technical Matryx materials from French manufacturer Chamatex, which are lightweight, breathable and abrasion-resistant at the same time. The material is designed to wrap around the foot like a sock. A principle that already exists in running shoes from various brands.
The double Boa lacing system allows the shoe to be customised at the front and in the heel area. If the foot expands during the hike due to heat and strain, it can be readjusted so that it fits well again.
Source: Siri Schubert
Merrell once again in a pioneering role
This is not the first time that the more than 40-year-old outdoor company, which is now part of Wolverine World Wide, has shown the courage to innovate. Merrell was the first manufacturer to use GoreTex membranes in hiking boots, helping mountain enthusiasts to keep their feet dry back in 1985.
The "SpeedARC Surge Boa" will be launched on the market in October. We will then see how the concept proves itself and for which paths and trails the shoe is suitable. One thing is already certain: Merrell's new shoe has little in common with the hiking boots of our grandmothers and grandfathers.
If you don't want to wait until autumn or prefer a traditional look for hiking, trail running or other outdoor activities, you'll find a wide selection of Merrell shoes like these in our range.
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
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