Merrell Agility Peak 4 Review

Overall Impression

This shoe would serve a quicker through-hiker or someone on a long and slow expedition on rocky terrain. The outsole is quite grippy and the protection is great. I ran across rocky terrain barely concerned with my foot plant and didn't feel the bite of any rock I landed on. However, the shoe is quite heavy, firmly cushioned, and not very responsive. I wouldn't feel fast in this shoe and the transition didn't feel very smooth. All in all an uninspiring shoe except for the looks. I dig the design and colors!

Comfort

The upper proved to be quite comfortable even though it seemed to be sized for an enormously high-volume foot. I was able to tighten the laces enough (with the lace eyelets nearly touching!) to get a tight, secure fit. I had zero issues with hotspots.

Cushion & Ride

The foam is very firm. It eats rocks and roots well as I never felt any on impact. But I'd never feel like I could run all day in this shoe of quickly. Just a harsh ride without any spring. I certainly wouldn't want to run on roads for long in this shoe. 

Traction

 The outsole has nicely-placed, grippy lugs that aren't too deep or too shallow. They'd serve well on all trail surfaces except for a lot of mud.