Our verdict
A lightweight hiking shoe with the fit and comfort of a sneaker, the Merrell Zion has gained excellent ratings for being downright comfortable. It is well-loved for its cushiony underfoot, grippy outsole, and impact-resistant midsole. Many also appreciate the roomy fit that makes trail walking even more enjoyable.
Pros
- Comfortable straight out of the box
- Attractive sneaker-inspired design
- Solid lightweight hiking shoe
- Excellent grip
- Impact-resistant
- Preferable for long walks
Cons
- Aren't rugged enough for challenging terrain
Who should buy the Merrell Zion
The Merrell Zion perfectly fits the bill for anyone looking for sturdy shoes they can use on the trail and on the streets. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a hiking shoe that offers protection from knocks and bumps
- Need a lightweight and durable hiking shoe
- Who should buy the Merrell Zion
Preferable for long walks
The Zion from Merrell uses a Vibram Megagrip outsole. This sticky unit has 5 mm deep lugs that anchor to a variety of terrain. The boots provide multidirectional traction, regardless of the ground condition.
Prevent the accumulation of mud and dirt
The textured spaces between each lug prevent the accumulation of mud and dirt. The sole extends upwards in the toe area which helps reinforce the foot’s protection against painful knocks.
Look for a hiking shoe that provides ground adherence
This low-top hiking shoe from Merrell comes with a compression-molded ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole. It gives wearers stability and comfort, especially when tackling rugged terrain. Comfort is further enhanced by bi-density EVA inserts placed at the rear- and forefoot. Cradling the hiker’s foot is a Kinetic Fit Base insole that also yields intuitive support.
updated Mar 15, 2023
The product engineers added the trademarked FlexPlate technology underfoot. This feature’s lightweight construction renders amplified comfort, reducing fatigue over long periods of use. It is also an impact-resistant material that protects the foot from sharp rocks and roots.
Breathable
Merrell’s Zion has a durable upper made of a combination of full-grain leather and ballistic mesh. Its interior is imbued with a breathable mesh for optimal comfort.
Optimize protection against outdoor elements
The shoe is designed with a bellows tongue and rubber toe cap that optimize protection against outdoor elements. The bellows tongue helps keep debris out, and the toe cap shields the user’s foot against painful knocks on rocky grounds.
Prevent the accumulation of mud and dirt
The shoe’s lacing system employs metal eyelets and webbing loops that aid in fit management. This system works with the integrated webbing stability arm that prevents heel slippage and maximizes trail performance.
