Famous as an outdoor performance shoe, Merrell Shoes knows all about style as well. Of course you want traction while hiking in the nearest forest preserve, but why not look good doing it? I’ve included a loafer and slide for when there’s a pause in your active lifestyle. Here are my top picks in Merrell’s men’s shoes.
1. Merrell Shoes ‘Jungle Moc’ Classics
The “Jungle Moc” has nearly achieved legendary status for good looks, comfort, and widespread appeal. With dual goring, suede uppers, and slip-on styling, this laid-back take on casual shoes has become a modern-day classic.
2. Merrell Shoes ‘World Passport’ – Trendy & Casual
My philosophy is: when you find a good-looking casual shoe that feels great, you grab it up. Of course, only you can decide how these shoes feel to you, but I can vouch for how good they look. Available in light brown, redwood or black, these slip-on shoes are a natural for jeans or khakis.
3. Merrell Shoes ‘Chameleon Traveler’
Part hiking boot, part fashion statement, the ‘Chameleon Traveler’ comes in mud brown. No one will know if you are going mountain climbing or if you are just the coolest guy in the pub.
4. Merrell Hemp Moc – Casual Slip-Ons
A casual slip-on that you can kick back and be lazy in, and still wear out for those 2 a.m., mandatory, dog walks. The light natural shade is unique, but great, because it doesn’t look too heavy.
5. Merrell ‘Calafina’ – Stylish Summer Thongs
These thong sandals aren’t your everyday thong sandals. Featuring sculpted midsoles, suede footbeds, leather uppers, and Merrell Air Cushioning, it seems nearly insulting to call the “Calafina” a flip-flop. So I didn’t.
History of Merrell Shoes and Boots:
Merrell is all about “getting outside.” What began in the Green Mountains in Vermont in the early 80s looking for a way to make cheaper, better men’s hiking boots has morphed into an amazing company with great products. For more than 26 years now, Merrell has been providing outdoor enthusiasts with performance men’s shoes and boots.
In 1997 Merrell was sold to Wolverine Worldwide which own many brands and specializes in manly, tough men’s boots. This enabled the brand to really broaden their reach. In 2007, the Merrell line was expanded to include apparel and accessories, and by 2010 Merrell products were being sold all over the world.
Over time, the concepts of “outdoor” has been broadened to include all types of activities and environments – both in the mountains and the city, and Merrell has help define this with a wide range of products.
As they mention on their website:
The next 26 years? Like every outdoor enthusiast, we will continue to “Get Outside.”
Merrell and Giving Back:
The Merrell outreach program supports and encourages everyone to get outside, especially kids. Some of the organizations they support include:
The National Park Foundation, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, American Hiking Society, Bay Area Wilderness Training, Conservation Alliance, Project Athena, and the Youth Outdoors Legacy Fund.
Merrell Shoes and Boots for Men:
While Merrell started out making hiking boots, they have expanded into many different areas. Their most popular men’s shoe is the casual, but flexible Merrell Jungle Moc. It’s a great shoe after a long day of activity.
You can also find trail shoes, Gortex hiking boots, and their latest is their line of barefoot-like running shoes that they have recently introduced.
It has a little more support than the Vibram that set the world on fire, but that adds a little more and protection when going through rough terrain.