Merrell MQM Flex GTX review

Who should buy the Merrell MQM Flex GTX 

Designed with athletic mobility in mind, the Merrell MQM Flex GTX is powered by technologies that enable day hikers to tackle trails with agility. It works well with: 

• individuals who want a breathable upper yet does not want to sacrifice protection against wet elements on the trail
• outdoorsy people who seek flexibility and maneuverability on their hiking footwear

Merrell’s sticky M Select Grip outsole

Merrell’s MQM Flex GTX is engineered with the M-Select Grip outsole for traction. It promises wearers enough grip on most types of surfaces with its 3.5-mm, debris-shedding lugs. It is reinforced with the TrailProtect pad—another Merrell-exclusive technology that adds a layer of terrain protection for the user.

This heavy-duty component has a narrow extension covering the tip of the forefoot. This covered part serves as the shoe’s toe bumper.

MQM Flex GTX wears Merrell’s proprietary midsole

The MQM Flex GTX is capable of stabilizing the foot over uneven terrain with ample cushioning thanks to its FLEXconnect dual-directional flex-groove EVA midsole. Its forefoot has vertical grooves that allow the midsole to flex with better fluidity, giving hikers a sense of connectedness to the ground.

Its shock-absorbing capability is doubled down by the Merrell Air Cushion technology embedded in its heel zone. The cushioning it provides is further bolstered by the shoe’s removable EVA footbed.

Merrell MQM Flex GTX breathable upper

Protecting the foot from the elements is the footwear’s below-the-ankle upper. Both its exterior and inner liner are made of breathable mesh fabric, while its scuff-resistant overlays and heel-supportive Hyperlock heel counter are made of TPU.

Its main bootie is crafted with a Gore-Tex membrane, granting the shoe adequate water protection. It has a bellows tongue that keeps debris out.