Our verdict
It should be as clear as day as to what the MQM 3 brings to the table—give every hiker surefootedness without skimping on mobility. Straight out of the gate, this day hiking shoe from Merrell feels super-plush, making negotiations across ruggedness pain- and blister-free. There's just this lingering question about whether or not it can last a few years.
Pros
- Remarkably supportive
- 10/10 lightness
- Our 1st pick in
- Immensely grippy
- Comfortable to the max
- Breaks in on hour zero
- Quite stable
Cons
- Underwhelming durability
- Its footbed could be cushier
The MQM 3s forgettable footbed
The Top 22% in cancels uncertainties on the trail minus the weight. Purchase it if:
- You want to know what it's like to free your toes from compression oppression.
- Lightweight hiking shoes that can dominate various surfaces are what you need.
- No smothered toes in the Merrell MQM 3.
Who should not buy it
Grace your feet with the Trailhead from Lems if you want a tougher pair. And if a springier platform is what you're after, skip the Top 22% in for the waterproof Columbia Vitesse Outdry.
Add a product
Explorers in droves commend the bracing sole unit of the Top 22% in. One of them says, "They provide excellent support for these tasks," and two of those are lots of walking and garden work. Another reviewer has this in their report: "Can wear them for hours, and my feet don't get tired."
Lightweight steps on queue
This urban hiker from Merrell is loved by many for its barely-there construction (it weighs a measly 315 grams apiece). "The best-ever lightweight hiking shoes," says a true-blue fan of the brand about his MQM 3s.
No smothered toes in the Top 22% in
Many trail-goers are stoked about the roominess of the MQM 3's forefoot section. One of them calls it a "generous toe box," while another commenter hails it as "a winner!"
Tenacity is its crowning glory
Adventurers deeply admire the top-shelf surface traction of the third-gen Merrell MQM. A seasoned hiker among them says that it's a "sturdy shoe with lots of grip." Another one says, "The Vibram soles give me confidence walking in early winter conditions."
But arguably the best one is this remark from a vlogger: "Traction has been wonderful in them." He says that you will have no problems negotiating limestone surfaces, muddy trails, and rooty valleys in it.
Takes a big L in longevity
Based on reviews, the Top 22% in is crazy comfortable on day one. Backing this statement are the comments "insanely comfortable" and "They are ready to go out of the box."
Takes a big L in longevity
There are those who criticize the featured shoe's flimsiness. "Although they are very comfortable and light, they are too fragile," says one of them. Another non-professional reviewer is disappointed that his MQM 3 has wear and tear despite using it only for two months.
Giver of excellent stability
Hikers are drawn to the stabilizing prowess of the Top 22% in. One of them says that it's "much better than the recent Brooks sneakers designed for balance."
The MQM 3's forgettable footbed
Underfoot cushioning is lackluster in the Top 22% in. "Change up the insoles as soon as you can," says YouTuber (he believes that it's as plain as a very thin Styrofoam). Another trail-goer says that in this kick, "There's room for gel pads."
