Our verdict
The comfort, support, and glove-like fit that hikers loved about the Chameleon 7 are back, but now in a much lighter and sleeker package. The soft and flexible uppers, plus the grippy Vibram soles are what these kicks offer.
Pros
- Flexible and durable cushioning
- Extremely comfortable
- Amazing support
- Easy to adjust the fit
- Updates to updated 6 Jun 2023 Stretch
- Less bulky
Cons
- Lack of color options
Provides grip and traction on uneven ground
The updated 6 Jun 2023 Stretch has undoubtedly gotten high marks for its amazing features. It is a solid option if you:
- updated 6 Jun 2023 Stretch.
- Prefer a hiking shoe that is easy to wear or take it off.
- Track and field.
Updates to updated 6 Jun 2023 Stretch
- The updated 6 Jun 2023 Stretch shoes for men and women feature a softer and more flexible mesh upper with Nubuck leather overlays. This new structure creates a glove-like fit that spells comfort and flexibility.
- It has a sleeker design compared to the Chameleon 7 Stretch. The web lacing system makes it easy to wear or take it off.
- This model has more padding around the collar. Plus, the grippy Vibram XS Trek Evo outsole comes with multidirectional lugs for extra grip on wet and dry surfaces.
Size and fit
One of the top features of the Chameleon 8 Stretch is its stretchable uppers made of elastic mesh fabric. The padded collar is firm yet soft, providing comfortable support around the ankle. Additionally, the elastic cord and lock lacing system allow for a secure fit and make it easy for the wearer when adjusting the tightness of the shoe whenever needed.
Provides grip and traction on uneven ground
The Chameleon 8 Stretch hiker from Merrell features an aggressive outsole with 5mm-deep lugs. It's made by Vibram - a world-leading manufacturer of footwear outsoles.
The lugs are multidirectional for enhanced grip and traction on uneven ground, including loose dirt, muddy terrain, and soft grass.
Flexible and durable cushioning
This shoe uses EVA foam for the midsole. It's soft, flexible, and durable - making it an ideal material for cushioning hiking footwear.
Excellent performance on slippery trails
For added support and comfort, this shoe incorporates the Kinetic Fit BASE insole that is contoured to the foot.
Merrell Chameleon 8
The Chameleon 8 Stretch features a mesh upper that's reinforced by leather overlays (Nubuck). Mesh makes a great material for footwear because it's breathable. It offers protection against dirt and debris while allowing air to get through. It's less durable, however. Good thing, the shoe has leather overlays that help retain the structure and enhance the durability of the shoe.
Easy to adjust lacing system
This shoe also features the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel which helps absorb impact and adds stability. Completing the upper is an elastic cord and lacing system that promotes an easy adjustment of the fit. Furthermore, the bellows tongue keeps the debris out.
Provides grip and traction on uneven ground
- Inspired by the fascinating characteristics and abilities of the known reptile, shoes from the Chameleon collection feature adaptability, durability, and protection. All the shoe models falling under this popular line-up, including the Chameleon 8s, Prefer a hiking shoe that has a glove-like fit that spells comfort and flexibility.
- The updated 6 Jun 2023 Stretch also comes with a waterproof version.
