Merrell MQM Flex GORE-TEX Walking Shoes
Inspired by athletes and made for you. This hybrid packs all the technology needed for moving quickly in the mountains as well as GORE-TEX material which provides durable waterproofing.
GORE-TEX Invisible Fit Upper
The MQM Flex GORE-TEX Walking shoes from Merrell is made from GORE-TEX Invisible Fit Fabric. With the GORE-TEX Invisible Fit technology, the membrane is engineered to bond to a variety of athletic uppers and reduces water pickup, meaning dry-out time is 50% faster. The lighter construction reduces its weight by up to 18% and eliminates wrinkles and folds, significantly reducing pressure marks.
The construction also allows the liner to be dropped in the heel, eliminating stitching abrasion points along the ankle and down the heel. A reduced gusset height brings a more comfortable tongue construction with no irritation on the instep, and a wide toe box delivers full freedom of movement in the toe area. A bellows tongue works to shield the foot and inside of the shoe from dirt and debris which could possibly enter, especially on loose, rugged trails.
In addition, Mesh and TPU have also been added to the shoes upper which allow warm air to be released from the shoe at the same time as allowing cool air to flow in, keeping the wearer's feet and the inside of the shoe as cool, dry and comfortable as possible. The TPU provides superb durability and offers some support for the uppers construction.
M-Select Fresh is added to the inside of the shoes that prevents the growth of odour causing microbes, ensuring your shoes stay smelling fresh for longer. Lastly, a hyperlock printed TPU film heel counter offers security and locks the heel into the shoe to also prevent any movement from occurring.
Flex Connect And EVA Midsole
The flex connect sweeps its way through all three components, the upper, midsole and outsole. the fit is designed to resemble and support the ligaments and tendons in the human foot. The hyperlock heel provides a precise heel lock for quick descents and sharp turns. In addition, the anatomically-inspired dual-flex grooves support the natural motion of the foot by promoting upward and downward flexibility for agility and stability on uneven terrain.
The flex connect is also part of the grip which is a sticky, durable rubber outsole with skeleton-like lugs and flex grooves moves with the foot to offer a full range of flexibility for superior grip and traction on wet or dry trails.
The Midsole is constructed by using a compression moulded EVA compound which offers supreme cushioning and support to key areas like the arch and heel, holding the foot securely in place for a smoother transition and wear. By supporting these key areas of the foot, the midsole material can also help to offer enough support to help prevent discomfort and possible injury. Located in the heel area is the Merrell air cushion which helps to keep the foot stable inside of the shoe as well as absorbing shock and impact forces to help prevent injury.
Underneath the EVA is the TrailProtect pad that offers additional support off road. This helps to combat torsion within the shoe, keeping its shape and rigidity as well as protects the foot from sharp rocks and objects that you could possibly come across during your travels.
M-Select Grip+ Outsole
The M-Select Grip+ is specifically tuned to match your activities. The M-Select Grip+ outsole roots itself in performance design and materials to deliver durable, highly slip-resistant traction on the wet and dry ground as well as over mixed terrain. The outsole also releases dirt and debris thanks to the specialised lugs.
The outsole compound is a tear resistant durable outsole that features a self-cleaning lug design, these features help the shoe grip to anything in any weather. The lugs are all over the outsole with some around the edges that grip for lateral movement and some that are angled allowing them to cut through any terrain.