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Merrell Zion: Sneaker Soul, Hiking Goal

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Durable, aggressive, and lightweight, the Merrell Zion hiker has the flexibility to be the only boot you need from home to outdoor escape.

A new lug geometry and an undercut heel make the Merrell Zion unique. Designed to fit like a sneaker but offer all the protection and prowess of a hiker, the Zion is the modern take on a classic boot.

Merrell Zion Hiking Shoe: Get a Grip

Varying terrain calls for a versatile outsole that can deliver predictable grip in all conditions, wet or dry. The Zion sports new lug geometry, made with Vibram Megagrip, to perform in all conditions.

The brand designed the sole with a large contact area for grip on the toe and heel, an undercut heel for braking downhill, and reinforced lugs running the length of the rubber for stability.

Protection Is Always Important

At just under 2 pounds for the pair, the Merrell Zion tackles the challenge of balancing durability with weight. The midsole FlexPlate, composed of an impact-resistant TPU, is a hard plastic aimed at delivering protection along the full length of the foot.

Merrell finishes with ballistic mesh and a full-grain leather upper to create hikers it claims are nimble and robust. Meanwhile, the rubber toe cap and bellow tongue also add another layer of defensive foot shielding to keep debris away from your feet.

Merrell Zion Specs

  • Weight: 1 lb. 13 oz. men’s / 1 lb. 9 oz. women’s
  • Midsole: FlexPlate
  • Lug depth: 5 mm
  • Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
  • Price: Starting at $120
  • Available for: Men and women
  • See more

The Agility Class

Merrell also added an ultralight FlexPlate technology. According to the brand, this adds “torsional rigidity” with strategically placed firmness at the heel and optimal flexibility at the toes.

The anatomical contour of the plate works to hold your foot in position to decrease twisting. And specially placed outsole pods aim to add strength at common traction points.

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Merrell Zion: Grounded

Merrell designed the Zion to be suitable for everyday use, competent for long climbs, and stylish enough to take it from work to the trail. The Zion is available now in both men’s and women’s versions starting at $120.


This article is sponsored by Merrell. Check out the Zion and get ready to hit the trail.

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