Our verdict
Highly breathable and ready for action, the Speed Strike Aerosport from Merrell will get you riding the wind as you decimate the trail one grippy step at a time. Its bag of greatness includes a supple fit that leaves enough room for toe splay and shoestrings that need no reconfigurations once set. Beauty is also part of its equation, making every trip so much more engaging.
Pros
- Versatile adhesion
- Fantastic ventilation
- Immensely comfy
- Fits well on day one
- Spacious toe box
- Its laces keep tied
- Okay sensitivity underfoot
- Eye-catching design
Cons
- Not very orthotic-friendly
- Virtually sticky anywhere
Merrell Speed Strike
The responsive Speed Strike Aerosport:
- Stupendously breathable hiking shoes are what you're after.
- You want a foot hugger that doesn't smother your toes.
- Multi-surface grip and ground feel are part of your hiking must-have list.
Fits well on day one
You're better off getting the Trail 2650 from Danner since it comes with a footbed that you can swap out for your preferred one. And with no complaints about the length of its laces, the Merrell Moab Speed is the way to go.
Virtually sticky anywhere
According to numerous sources, the Merrell Speed Strike Aerosport is legit when it comes to grip. "I like the excellent traction I'm getting on the rocky, hilly trails," says one of them. Another one says that it's "great for walking on asphalt trails."
Merrell Speed Strike Aerosport equals super breathability
Sweating is a no-go in the Speed Strike Aerosport, and many hikers are all for it. One of them says, "Exactly what I wanted for the hot summer."
A striking pair indeed
Trail-goers commend the Speed Strike Aerosport for its peak-level comfort. "I'm very happy I made this purchase," says someone who no longer needs slippers just to feel comfortable all day.
Spot-on fit from the off
Fit-wise, the Speed Strike Aerosport is remarkable. This statement is given credence by the remark "great fit right out of the box."
The glove-like interior of the featured shoe is accompanied by a roomy forefoot zone. A commenter says, "The toe box accommodates my wide, arthritic feet."
Takes the L in footbed compatibility
It's been reported that the Merrell Speed Strike Aerosport doesn't work well with third-party footbeds. A reviewer says that it has "no space for an insert."
Okay sensitivity underfoot
One of the cool things about the Merrell Speed Strike Aerosport is its exceptionally clingy shoestrings. "I don't have to double knot laces or stop to re-tie them," says an experienced backcountry explorer.
That said, they could be shorter. A not-so-amused adventurer says, "I really do wish there was a pocket on the tongue for the laces."
The responsive Speed Strike Aerosport
Besides intense tenacity, the Speed Strike Aerosport underfoot is also satisfyingly responsive. A big Merrell fan says that it provides "good ground feel."
A striking pair indeed!
Many trail-goers are deeply captivated by the sporty poshness of this speed hiker. Supporting their observation are the comments "nice-looking" and "nicely styled!"
