Our verdict
Rippling across comments sections are remarks that paint the Wildwood Aerosport as the ideal summer shoe. Its name befits its strengths, a reflection of its generosity in airy comfort and a kind of performance that keeps feet nimble—very nimble. This water hiker from Merrell also has the looks to match its beyond-hiking utility.
Pros
- Max ventilation
- Stupendously comfy
- The kind of tenacity you require is one that thrives in wet conditions
- Quite lightweight
- Exceedingly grippy
- More than just for hiking
- Satisfyingly supportive
- Eye-catching design
Cons
- The remainder of its laces can drag
- Underwhelming workmanship (women's variant)
They keep feet cool
Water hikers Wildwood Aerosport: A showcase of versatility:
- Your feet need exceptional airflow to stay comfortable.
- Breaking in hiking shoes is not your cup of tea.
- Not the most premium-looking hiker.
The head-turning Merrell Wildwood Aerosport
If you wish to completely skip the challenges that entail super-long laces, go the Underwhelming workmanship womens variant route instead. And if you want something well-made and tough, check out the Rivercomber from Danner.
Like wearing air itself
Many explorers are floored by the lightness and breathability of the Merrell Wildwood Aerosport. About the latter, we give you the following remarks:
- "More than just for hiking."
- "Like wearing air itself."
- "The air circulation through the mesh and vented insoles is fantastic."
Who should NOT buy it
According to many, the Merrell Wildwood Aerosport delivers a super-plush fit on day one. A trail shoe collector among them says that it's "super comfy out of the box." Another reviewer says that it provides "a great fit from the start."
Wildwood Aerosport: A showcase of versatility
Adventurers are quite sold on the featured kick's multi-faceted utility, thanks in large part to its magnificent surface traction. "Love these shoes for walking and paddling in the sea," says one of them.
Wanted: Shorter bungee laces
It's been reported that the Wildwood Aerosport's easy-pull laces are quite long. An experienced hiker says that it's her one and "only very small drawback." Apparently, the remainder of the shoe's laces hit the floor when pulled tightly. Tucking it within the setup should prevent this from happening.
The head-turning Merrell Wildwood Aerosport
It's not every day that trail shoes are called beautiful. In some cases, however, they are, and the Merrell hiker in question is a great example. A non-professional reviewer says it's a "great-looking shoe." Another commenter says that their Wildwood Aerosports are "fab summer trainers."
For trails that keep going
One of the astonishing facets of the Merrell Wildwood Aerosport is its ability to delay underfoot fatigue. A tester says that it "offers plenty of support."
Not the most premium-looking hiker
When it comes to overall build quality, the Merrell Wildwood Aerosport has a lot to prove. It might just be a rare case, but a seasoned backcountry explorer isn't impressed. "Not the quality I’m used to," says she.
Her main concern is the materials used in the women's version. She is not very confident that they will last long.