What started this year with the release of the MQM Flex extended into a full hybrid line for Merrell, with new models coming this summer, fall/winter, and spring of 2019. GearJunkie got a first look.
ROVE Mid Knit 2019
Touted as “the most innovative, supportive hiker Merrell has ever built,” the ROVE Mid Knit is a unique design with a woven upper and TPU struts for support. Its foot-wrapping design is an “athletic hybrid,” Merrell says, with 4-mm lugs on a Vibram Megagrip sole. Available for spring 2019.
ROVE Mid Knit 2019
The ROVE Mid Knit will come in men’s and women’s models. A special cushion in the heel absorbs shock, and the designers included Boa lacing for quick on and off as well as a secure fit.
MQM Flex spring 2018
Merrell’s flagship trail footwear for 2018, the MQM FLEX line marks the start of a new “hybrid approach” for the brand’s footwear design. Its function fits between hiking boots and trail-running shoes, with fast-and-light features balanced out around protection and support. We interviewed Merrell VP of Product Steve Workman for a full breakdown in the article “New Breed: Merrell MQM FLEX ‘Hybrid’ Trail Shoe.”
MQM Rush Flex fall 2018
A mid-height stretch collar at the ankle was built to keep debris out as you hike, as well as aiding in easy on and off. The MQM Rush Flex is a second-generation shoe made for fast-paced hiking. Merrell used ballistic fabrics, a sticky sole with 3-mm lugs, and unique (for footwear) antimicrobial technology in the upper to “disrupt the reproduction of the odor-causing microbes in your shoes.”
Thermo Rogue winter 2018 2019
The hybrid theme continues into winter. The Thermo Rogue Boots nabbed a “Best in Show” award from GearJunkie this year for their standout design and features, including Aerogel and PrimaLoft insulation, Gore-Tex waterproofing, and a Vibram Arctic Grip Dura sole for traction on frozen ground (technology exclusive to Merrell). Our editors called the Thermo Rogue a “next-gen winter boot that combines a ton of tech in a smart, svelte footwear package.”
MQM Ace Mid 2019
The Ace comes in several designs and is the third iteration in the MQM hybrid hiker/trail-runner line. Merrell cites it as “the most premium version of the [MQM] shoe to date.” Pictured here is the mid-height boot model.
MQM Ace Mid 2019
Merrell focused on technology as well as aesthetics with the MQM Ace line, noting the footwear will come in “electric shades of nature’s brightest colors that exist alongside abstract stone patterns for a totally nostalgic 90’s feel.”
MQM Ace 2019
Details like a floating “Hypercage” for support on the uppers will set the MQM Ace line apart. This low-top model has a mesh and TPU upper, a cushion in the heel to absorb shock, and (like its 2018 MQM cousins) directional grooves in the EVA midsole for agility on the trail.
