Summary
We spent 6.8 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what hikers think:
6 reasons to buy
- Almost all Merrell Zion Waterproof reviews from verified customers praise it for being a satisfyingly plush shoe for hikers.
- Its versatility for outdoor trails and urban environments leaves a good impression on countless users.
- The lightness of the Zion Waterproof astonishes a majority of adventurers.
- About a handful of consumers find this Merrell offering to be sufficiently effective against wet encounters.
- A minority of outdoor enthusiasts commend the footgear’s outsole for supplying ample grip on varied terrain.
- Some shoppers appreciate the breathability of this low-top hiker.
3 reasons not to buy
- Several buyers notice that the Merrell Zion Waterproof’s underfoot support is lacking.
- Its narrow toe box leaves a couple of wearers disappointed.
- A few purchasers notice that the shoe’s break-in period is longer than they anticipated.
Bottom line
Those who give importance to comfort and versatility may like what they get from this lightweight Merrell pair. Indeed, its waterproofness and traction may also add to the value presented by this footgear to consumers.
However, there are those who claim that the shoe’s underfoot support is not sufficient for outdoor terrain. Overall, the Merrell Zion Waterproof may provide hikers with ample performance via its trail-related strengths, granted its default insole is replaced with a more supportive variant.
Facts
| Base model: | Merrell Zion |
|---|---|
| Use: | Day Hiking |
| Cut: | Low cut |
| Price: | $140 |
| Features: | Orthotic friendly |
| Waterproofing: | Waterproof |
| Width: | Normal | Normal |
| Brand: | Merrell |
| Material: | Leather, Mesh upper, Rubber sole, Vibram sole |
| Closure: | Lace Up |
| Colorways: | Black, Brown |
| Special editions: | |
| SKUs: | J16871, J18800 |
Rankings
-Merrell crafted the Zion Waterproof as a below-the-ankle shoe using a trail running platform and hike-centric technologies. Its full-grain leather and mesh upper is lined with a patented M Select Dry membrane to keep water out.
-Giving outdoorsy individuals a cushioned ride is the footgear’s compression-molded ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole is designed to deliver traction on most types of ground conditions.
The Merrell Zion Waterproof is a low-top hiking shoe built for men and women. Its conventional lacing system grants wearers a secure and customized lockdown. It is connected to an integrated webbing stability arm to provide a snug fit.
Delivering ground adherence to users is the Merrell Zion Waterproof’s Vibram Megagrip outsole. Its profile is filled with aggressive 5mm-deep triangular lugs, which render grip on virtually all types of terrain. This component is made of a Megagrip rubber compound, which is engineered to withstand harsh ground conditions while keeping its durability intact. Meanwhile, the outsole’s front tip extends upward to provide protection from accidental knocks.
This hike-specific shoe from Merrell comes with a compression-molded EVA midsole for shock reduction and rebound. A pair of dual-density EVA inserts are positioned in the forefoot and rearfoot areas to deliver added cushioning. It has the brand’s patented Kinetic Fit Base footbed, which grants arch support and extra comfort underfoot. A lightweight FlexiPlate is also integrated into the Zion Waterproof’s midsole to make it rigid and supportive.
The Merrell Zion Waterproof is equipped with an upper made of full grain leather mesh panels. The combination of these materials imbues the shoe with durability and lightness. It houses a trademarked M Select Dry membrane to prevent water from entering while allowing excess moisture to pass through. Its forefoot section has a rubber rand, which gives added protection from various trail hazards.
This Merrell hiking shoe uses a round lace, several fabric loops, and metal eyelets for fit management. Its bellows tongue prevents debris from entering the footgear. The molded heel counter contains several perforations for optimal breathability. It also grants added heel support. The Zion Waterproof’s ankle cuff is padded to promote comfort.
-Buyers who seek a boost in performance and protection for multi-day trips may want to explore the benefits of backpacking boots. One option that may be considered is the Salomon Quest Prime GTX.
