A new generation of hiking shoes is offering lighter weight, lower-cut, more breathable and flexible designs. At the same time they still offer the protection and structure you need to tackle a variety of trails. Built for those who like to go all in, the new Merrell All Out Blaze fits right into this new generation of hiking shoes.
On Performance & Design…
Merrell’s All Out Blaze is a prime example of the new trend towards running-influenced hybrid shoes for your mountain escapades. Incorporating some of the newest running technology and design principles from the Merrell trail running line, this new hiker from Merrell exceeded our expectations easily handling every stretch of trail we traversed. Simply put, the All Out Blaze is ready to claw over mountainous terrain.
We all know that hiking comes in different forms. For some it means heading towards isolation and solitude in the undomesticated playground of Mother Nature. For others, it’s a day of meandering with the family along the local levee. No matter how you define it, the All Out Blaze puts insightful design at the forefront of your hiking adventure translating into better fit and feel on the trail.
That shrewd design scheme starts with a natural form intended to provide a responsive ride that also activates your natural form and hiking motion. Merrell also utilizes their UniFly™ technology which disperses impact and helps stabilize the foot to smooth out the road ahead. And because a sloppy fit has no place on the trail, Merrell Omni-Fit lacing allows you to lock in a glove like fit.
In typical Merrell style, the All Out Blaze offers a combination of premium leather and synthetic uppers that allows air circulation to keep you comfortable even on your more aerobically inspired hikes. Super-grippy Vibram outsole keeps you grounded when you’re out for a quick jaunt on the local trails. And for days that find you navigating even the most sketchy scrambles, this outsole features flex-grooves for added flexibility which also further enhances the natural movement of the foot.
Admittedly there are those who still seem to reckon that your ankles will immediately snap or you’ll fall off the nearest cliff if you DON’T wear a full fledged boot for hiking. And while ankles are always slightly more vulnerable in a lower cut shoe, we found that the TPU external heel counter coupled with the naturally shaped design of this hiker provided an impressive level of stability and balance.
Of course for those who prefer their stability to manifest itself in a higher cut, Merrell offers the All Out Blaze Mid-Cut version for both men and women. The mid-cut version also offers a waterproof membrane for added protection from the elements.
Bottom Line…
A hiking shoe in trail-runners clothing, the All Out Blaze is ready and willing to keep you light on your feet when the trail gets heavy. Gumption tested. Gumption approved.
*Gumption Gear Review received the product samples featured in this review from Merrell. The items featured were provided solely in exchange for testing the products and providing our honest views and opinions. We received no other form of compensation for this or any related review.