If you're looking for 'pretty' shoes then these are not for you.
If you are looking for comfort that lasts all day long, stability from a sole that is wider & firmer than normal walking shoes, water proof to keep your feet dry in wet weather, soles that do not slide on wet floors then these shoes are for you.
There was no break in period for me. I've worn hiking shoes before & already know what to expect. They are heavier than walking shoes, the soles are firmer & wider so you are stable on your feet and you can feel it when you walk. Comfort lasts all day long. Expect a shoe that doesn't breathe too well, so your feet will be warm in winter & hot in summer. I wear an 8.5 comfortably in regular walking shoes, so I ordered the same in these. I want to say they run a little large, but that wouldn't be exact. Hiking shoes are made to be worn with thick socks and these shoes do have a little extra room for a thicker sock. Overall the fit is as expected to be. I lace them up snug & wear socks that are a little thicker simply because of the comfort with a sock that has cushioning. The toe bed is wide enough that my toes aren't smashed together, nor rubbing on the inside of the shoe. The heel part is also wide enough that it is not snug or tight.
What I don't like is the laces. They are awful thin & fully laced up snug they dig into the top of my foot. I've had to replace them and notice so much more comfort with a flat lace.
I'm a mom & spend a lot of time on my feet during the day. Its rare for me to walk around without shoes, so comfort is a must. I chase a toddler around all day long & we go on short walks daily so I need to be able to keep up. These shoes are light enough that I can run if I have to, but heavy enough that my feet stay planted stable on the ground. My shoe needs are simple. Quality that will last longer than a year of daily wear. Comfort while wearing 12 hours a day. Stability on my feet. No sliding on wet floors. Water proof for winter time & in the rain. Sturdy shoe that will keep my feet protected no matter if I am walking around outside, chasing my son at the park or inside the house trying not to trip over my sons toys.
These are very nice shoes & I have a feeling that they will last several years for me. I am happy with this purchase.
Great Shoes, Great Price
These Merrell hiking shoes fit exactly as I would have expected them to. They fit like every other pair of Merrell shoes that I have ever owned but with a bit more structure which is nice when you are going hiking.
The shoes are also waterproof which makes them nice because who wants wet feet when they are hiking? I have worn them out in the snow and had no issues with my feet getting wet.
The color of the shoes is much nicer in person. I was concerned that I would not like the color when I first ordered them but I tend to stick to buying Merrell shoes because they are always so well made and last a long time.
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