Verdict from 9 experts and 35 user reviews
7 reasons to buy
- Many runners are satisfied by the lightweight running experience delivered by the 361 Degrees Meraki 2.
- According to several testers, the shoe is very durable; it does not easily wear and is resistant to abrasion.
- Numerous wearers admire the springy ride delivered by the QU!K Flex 4 Foot engineering of the shoe.
- Some users are very appreciative of the fit of the shoe.
- When in motion, the QU!KFOAM midsole of the Meraki 2 delivers a very comfortable ride.
- A few runners commend the good traction delivered by this neutral running shoe.
- Sufficient support has been provided by the shoe, said some purchasers.
2 reasons not to buy
- One user states that the Meraki 2 employs laces that are too long.
- The shoe can cause some irritation as it rubs against the foot, especially on the lateral area, a reviewer noted.
Bottom line
Built for both comfort and performance, the 361 Degrees Meraki 2 has received a mix response from the running community. There are some concerns regarding the shoe causing some irritation, especially on the lateral area. However, many of the runners and experts are very satisfied with the comfort delivered by the shoe, which has been the promised feature of the shoe. The shoe, according to many, is able to deliver a springy and propulsive ride. That is why many have claimed that they will surely recommend this runner to their peers.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 90/100 by Believe in the Run
- 88/100 by Running Northwest
- 80/100 by Gear Institute
- 91/100 by Doctors of Running
- 77/100 by Road Trail Run
- 96/100 by Steph Pi Runs
- 92/100 by Canadian Running Magazine
- 89/100 by Runner's World
- 85/100 by Triathlon Magazine Canada
Good to know
- The Meraki 2 is designed to handle short to mid-distance running. It is constructed with cushioning and comfort in mind. Recently the second iteration has gone through some updates in order to deliver that propulsive ride.
- One of the updates made to the shoe is the integration of a seamless engineered mesh material as the upper of the shoe. Because of this, the shoe has become more lightweight compared to its predecessor. To further shed off some weight, overlays have been stripped from this model.
- Since the Meraki 2 aims to deliver a comfortable ride, a seamless construction has been integrated into its design to avoid irritation. A pressure-free tongue also eliminates the load on the top of the foot while comfortable holding the foot in place.
The 361 Degrees Meraki 2 is designed with an engineered mesh upper that conforms to the shape of the foot, basically hugging it to secure the fit. A lace-up fastening system is employed to provide a customizable fit. One notable feature that secures the shoe’s fit is the pressure-free tongue it employs, holding the foot comfortably in place.
A blown rubber outsole is known for possessing durable qualities that are essential to the longevity of the shoe. It is known for employing flexible properties as well, and it helps disperse shock. It also enhances the traction of the shoe on varying surfaces. This outsole component is also present in the Brooks Ravenna 10.
The QU!KFOAM midsole of the Meraki 2 runs full-length and is made of smooth EVA wrapped with PU. It provides superb cushioning to the shoe to deliver that smooth and comfortable ride. It further protects the foot as it has lasting shock-attenuating properties.
Serving 2 purposes, the QU!K Spine carbon fiber plate situated in the midsole of this road running shoe is equipped for protection and responsiveness. Further, this carbon plate adds to the firmness of the midsole.
Featuring a QU!K Flex 4 Foot engineering, the shoe is graced with the ability to provide a balanced toe off and enhances acceleration. This engineering exhibits the curved-up sole unit in the toe box area of the shoe, advancing propulsion.
Known for being lighter than its predecessor, the Meraki 2 is designed with a seamless engineered mesh upper that allows adaptability to the foot for a secure fit. This upper construction also makes up the flexibility of the shoe which enables free movement of the foot. The seamless construction of the shoe also prevents irritation.
The Fitz-Rite uses soft internal webbing that comfortably holds the foot in place.
A pressure-free tongue is furnished to the shoe to provide extended comfort and to avoid irritation.
How Meraki 2 compares
