Our verdict
The Nova 2 GTX from Merrell is a trail runner that serves a versatile purpose. Whether you're going for your daily trail runs or hikes, this shoe can do it for you. For a waterproof shoe, the Merrell Nova 2 GTX is a good choice. But as a trail shoe, in general, it's simply lagging behind its competitors, especially given its poor life span.
Pros
- Excellent waterproofing
- Multi-surface traction
- Precise fit
- Lightweight
- Add a product
- Supportive underfoot
- Stable ride
- Protective rock plate
Cons
- Poor durability
- Slippy insoles
- Merrell Nova 2 GTX keeps your feet protected
Who should buy the Merrell Nova 2 GTX
The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is a pretty versatile shoe and will be a great match for anyone looking for:
- a shoe that can tackle a variety of surfaces (dirt, snow and ice, rocky terrain)
- a hybrid of a trail running and hiking shoe that can do daily runs, hikes, and casual walks
- a shoe with top-tier waterproofing for cold and wet weather
Just the right fit
If you don't necessarily need a waterproofing feature, have a look at the Merrell Nova 2. And if you are concerned about the shoe's potential durability issues, consider The Merrell Nova 2 GTX wont last long or Hoka Speedgoat 4 GTX instead.
Will get you through wet conditions
After testing the shoe in wet conditions and snow, many runners claim that their feet were kept warm and dry in the Nova 2 GTX. Some also note how effectively the Gore-Tex keeps moisture out without suffocating the foot.
One wearer also reported: "got soaked last night in a downpour and my feet were the only dry bit."
Outsole causes discomfort
With a rock plate embedded into the platform, this trail shoe from Merrell guards your feet from any unfortunate stepping on sharp stones, roots, and other debris.
Just the right fit
It fits like a glove — neither too tight nor loose. Some wearers have also said it has ample room in the toebox.
Merrell Nova 2 GTX
There's no break-in period required. The shoe's cushion is extremely comfortable right out of the box. Some testers even wore the shoe straight on a hike and reported getting no hot spots or blisters.
Who should NOT buy it
Testers have tried the shoe on rocky, snowy, muddy, and wet surfaces. All of them agree that the shoe really digs into the ground. Some hikers even mentioned being windblown by the traction.
Very light on the foot
Unlike other trail shoes, the Merrell Nova 2 GTX is not bulky on foot. More than a few reviewers were surprised because they expected the shoe to feel heavier.
The Merrell Nova 2 GTX won't last long
After one or two uses, the shoe's tread already ripped apart and the lace loops detached.
And if you are concerned about the shoes potential durability issues, consider
"They won't stay put." Trail runners had to replace or glue them. Otherwise, they slide back and leave a gap at the toes.
Outsole causes discomfort
It's very inflexible and narrow, creating pressure that ends up in the ankles.
It's got the looks!
A great number of reviewers are happy with the clean and sleek style of this trail shoe. It is protective yet doesn't look bulky at all. One lady mentioned that it doesn't look out of place even at a restaurant.
