Merrell Nova 3
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🏅 Highly Rated
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Overview
The Merrell Nova 3 is a versatile and sturdy hiking shoe designed to provide durability and support for outdoor enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Trail-Ready Outsole: The Nova 3 features a rugged outsole with multidirectional lugs, offering excellent traction on a variety of terrains, ensuring reliable grip.
- Durable Construction: It is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, providing durability and protection against challenging terrain and trail debris.
- Cushioned Comfort: The shoe incorporates cushioning for comfort during extended hikes and outdoor adventures.
- Breathable Upper: The upper is designed with breathable materials, promoting airflow and keeping your feet comfortable during long hikes.
The Merrell Nova 3 is tailored for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers who prioritize durability and support in their footwear, making it an ideal choice for tackling rugged terrains and outdoor adventures.
With an average review score of 78%, it's in the highest rated 10% of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 30% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Merrell Nova 3
The Merrell Nova 3 is a trail running shoe that offers a comfortable and stable ride for runners of medium to heavy weight. It is ideal for daily running and is particularly suited for trail running. The shoe features a breathable mesh upper and a midsole made with Vibram compound for maximum traction. However, the grip could be improved, especially on wet and humid terrain or steep slopes. Overall, the Merrell Nova 3 is a reliable choice for runners seeking a versatile and comfortable trail running shoe.
Updates to Merrell Nova 3
The Merrell Nova 3 is a lighter version of its predecessor, the Merrell Nova 2. It maintains the comfort and versatility of the previous model while reducing the weight for a lighter and more comfortable run. The shoe also features a more breathable upper, making it a better choice for hot weather conditions.
Comparable Shoes
Compared to the Merrell Nova 3, the Merrell Agility Peak 4 offers a more reliable grip on various surfaces. However, the Nova 3 is lighter and more comfortable for long runs.
The Merrell Trail Glove 6 is another alternative to the Merrell Nova 3. It boasts better outsole durability, but the Nova 3 offers a more comfortable and breathable ride.
6 Merrell Nova 3 Pros & Cons
4 Pros
2 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Merrell Nova 3 is made of mesh, providing excellent breathability and keeping your feet cool during your run. The shoe also features adjustable lacing for a secure fit and reflective motifs for visibility during low-light conditions.
Midsole
The midsole of the Merrell Nova 3 is made with a Vibram compound, offering maximum traction and stability. This makes the shoe suitable for a variety of terrains, especially for trail running.
Outsole
The outsole of the Merrell Nova 3 could use some improvement. While it provides adequate grip on dry terrain, it can be slippery on wet and humid surfaces or steep slopes. However, it does feature a rock plate for added protection.
Size/fit
The Merrell Nova 3 offers a medium toe box, providing ample space for your toes to splay naturally. The shoe also features adjustable lacing for a secure and personalized fit.
Comfort
One of the standout features of the Merrell Nova 3 is its comfort. The shoe offers lasting comfort for long runs, making it an ideal choice for runners planning to tackle medium to long distance races.
Who should buy the Merrell Nova 3?
The Merrell Nova 3 is a great choice for runners seeking a comfortable and versatile shoe for trail running. It's particularly suited for runners of medium to heavy weight who prioritize comfort for long runs. If you're planning to tackle medium to long distance mountain races, this shoe could be a good fit for you.
Who should not buy the Merrell Nova 3?
If you're a runner who often runs on wet and humid terrain or steep slopes, the Merrell Nova 3 might not be the best choice for you. The grip of the shoe could be improved for these conditions. Also, if you're looking for a shoe for fast paces, you might want to consider other options as this shoe prioritizes comfort over speed.
Merrell Nova 3: What's it good for?
The Merrell Nova 3 is good for trail running and is particularly suited for medium to long distance mountain races. It's also a sustainable choice as it's made of 100% recycled materials.
4 Merrell Nova 3 FAQs
Is the Merrell Nova 3 suitable for trail running?
Yes, the Merrell Nova 3 is designed for trail running. It offers a comfortable and stable ride, making it suitable for medium to long distance mountain races.
What is the weight of the Merrell Nova 3?
The Merrell Nova 3 weighs 295 g, making it a lightweight choice for a trail running shoe.
Is the Merrell Nova 3 breathable?
Yes, the Merrell Nova 3 features a breathable mesh upper, ensuring good ventilation during your run.
What is the heel to toe drop of the Merrell Nova 3?
The Merrell Nova 3 has a heel to toe drop of 8 mm, providing a balanced and natural running position.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | ||||
| released | ReleasedMay 2023 | Dec 2023 | May 2023 | Nov 2021 | Nov 2023 | Oct 2023 |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | Weight295 g | M: 266 g W: 238 g | M: 352 g W: 289 g | M: 320 g W: 278 g | 329 g | |
| Forefoot | Forefoot21 mm | 24 mm | 27 mm | 22 mm | ||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop8 mm | 6 mm | 8 mm | 3 mm | 10 mm | |
| Heel | Heel29 mm | 30 mm | 34 mm | 32 mm | ||
| Terrain | TerrainTrail | Trail | Trail | Trail | Trail | MudSnow/iceTrail |
| Usages | Usages | Obstacle course racingRacingSpeed training | ||||
| Brand | BrandMerrell | Brooks | Reebok | Saucony | Hoka | Salomon |
| Strike Type | Strike Type | Fore/Midfoot strike | Heel strike | |||
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | Low dropMaximalist | Maximalist | |||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Rock plate | Rock plate | |||||
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Carbon fiber plate | Carbon fiber plate | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Techs | TechsVibram | Saucony PWRRUN | Vibram | Gore-TexOrthoLite | ||
| Waterproofings | Waterproofings | Waterproof | ||||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable | Sustainable | Sustainable | Sustainable | SustainableVegan Ⓥ | |
Common characteristicsNeutral |
- May 2023
- Apr 2019
- Jan 2016
