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The Merrell Nova 4 is the model’s best-selling path shoe, and I got down to discover out why. When a model reaches a fourth iteration of a product, it’s an indication they’ve acquired one thing price conserving round.
After all, every new model can include adjustments that may alienate some customers or entice new ones. I’m one of many new ones.
As somebody who’s by no means tried a Merrell operating shoe earlier than, I used to be excited to check one which has been in manufacturing for some time—hopefully, which means it’s been fine-tuned through the years.
Outfitted with applied sciences like Cleansport NXT™, FloatPro™ Foam Midsole, and Merrell Quantum Grip™, the Nova 4 guarantees to deal with varied terrains whereas conserving your ft snug. It definitely has the fitting options, however let’s dive into how properly it really performs on the path.
The Merrell Nova 4 is a constant favourite for Merrell, delivering a strong efficiency on technical trails.
Who’s It Good For?
Who’s the Merrell Nova 4 good for? Let’s break it down with some frequent classes:
- Extensive Toes: Sure, they also have a large choice!
- Technical Trails: Excellent for rocky, uneven surfaces with strong grip and help.
- Lengthy Runs: With its cushioning, it’s designed for each brief and longer path distances.
- Entrance of the Pack: This can be a nice path shoe for lengthy runs and path races.
Merrell Nova 4 Overview
New coaching blocks are all the time a good time to check out new concepts—whether or not it’s testing totally different distances, fueling methods, or, in fact, new gear!
The Merrell Nova 4 arrived simply as I began a brand new coaching block, and I used to be excited to see what Merrell needed to supply.
Gearing up for a path 50k, this block had each lengthy coaching hours and velocity play exercises. Normally, I follow my trusted Hoka/Topo rotation, but it surely was the right alternative to check out a shoe that claims to deal with a bit little bit of every part.
Proper out of the field, I used to be stunned by how snug the Nova 4’s had been. The FloatPro™ Foam Midsole instantly jogged my memory of my favourite pair of Hoka Speedgoats, that are recognized for consolation. Merrell undoubtedly had my consideration from the primary try-on.
However I wished to actually take a look at them out, so I took them on a pleasant lengthy (20 mile) take a look at run.
The midsole offered simply the fitting stability of cushioning with out shedding responsiveness. It supplied strong help for my lengthy runs, offering a cushty, impact-absorbing really feel over the tough terrain. But, once I picked up the tempo for a couple of strides, the shoe nonetheless was responsive.
It wouldn’t be my first alternative for a speedwork solely exercise, but it surely simply dealt with my mid-run pick-ups.
The knit mesh higher was one other shock. It’s light-weight, breathable, and comfortable with out being restrictive—undoubtedly an enormous plus on the subject of getting a cushty match proper off the bat. I used to be impressed by how sturdy it was, particularly once I by chance examined it by snagging a low department. No rips or material snags!
The double-layer mesh stored my ft well-ventilated, even once I went from Colorado’s 6º to Arizona’s 70º climate. And, whereas they acquired soaked operating by way of snow and puddles, the mesh higher allowed them to dry rapidly.
The FLEXconnect™ Midsole deserves a point out, because it performs a key position within the Nova 4 versatility. It flexes in a number of instructions, permitting the shoe to adapt to various terrain. This offers a responsive really feel with out sacrificing stability or feeling too stiff. Partnered with the Merrell Quantum Grip™, it creates a sturdy and versatile outsole.
In terms of traction, the 4mm lugs on the outsole supply simply sufficient grip with out being too aggressive. This makes the Nova 4 superb for blended situations, offering a strong maintain on every part from filth paths to technical trails.
The hoof-shaped lugs within the center present most grip the place a lot of the weight is distributed throughout runs, whereas the extra slender, rectangular lugs on the surface, prime, and backside guarantee much more traction—primarily providing wall-to-wall grip.
One function that I completely beloved and need each shoe had is Cleansport NXT™ expertise, which treats the shoe for pure odor management.
Truthfully, this has been a game-changer. I’ve been operating in these footwear for a few months, placing them by way of the wringer—soaked in snow, splashed by way of puddles, and zipped closed into my operating bag—but they by no means developed a nasty scent. It’s really spectacular how properly it really works!
Merrell Nova 4 Specs
Let’s have a look at among the particulars:
- Weight: Males’s 9.7 oz
- Heel Drop: 8 mm
- Stack Peak: 29 mm
- Utilization: Path operating, lengthy runs, and extremely path races
- Out there in 4 colours
- Out there in large
- Out there at
Merrell Nova 4 Match
The match of the Merrell Nova 4 is comfortably roomy with out being extreme—excellent for my customary foot (not too slender, not too large).
In accordance with different opinions, it matches true to dimension for many runners, although it could really feel a bit roomier within the toe field for these with narrower ft.
The padded heel collar felt good, and the heel cup stored my foot securely in place. To verify it stayed locked in, I used a heel lock lacing method, and there was loads of lace size to realize that.
Talking of laces, I actually like these—flat, textured, and with minimal stretch. The most effective half? They stayed tied all through my runs and also have a lace keeper on the tongue, which is all the time a win!
I used to be curious to see how my physique would deal with an 8mm drop in comparison with the 4mm drop of my beloved Speedgoats. My Achilles have a tendency to talk up rapidly if it doesn’t like a drop—whether or not it’s too excessive or too low—however I didn’t discover any discomfort in any respect. In actual fact, every part felt excellent.
The Merrell Nova 4’s general footprint is noticeably smaller and even lighter than that of a Speedgoat and different excessive quantity footwear. Regardless of its extra compact design, it nonetheless manages to ship on consolation.
If footwear like Hoka, Altra, and even Topo have ever felt too large for you or not fairly proper, I’d undoubtedly advocate giving the Nova 4 a attempt. Its accommodating match would possibly simply be the answer.
Related Sneakers To Merrell Nova 4
In case you’re in search of options with related efficiency traits, listed below are a couple of choices price contemplating:
Ultimate Ideas
The Merrell Nova 4 stunned me in numerous methods. I used to be initially not sure what to anticipate from a model I hadn’t used earlier than, however the Nova 4 proved to be a strong performer. With a cushty match, good traction, and responsive cushioning, it really works properly for quite a lot of terrains.
Merrell’s in-house expertise, just like the FloatPro™ Foam Midsole and FLEXconnect™, delivers on the claims of being a cushty, sturdy, and a supportive experience, making it a dependable choice for longer runs and technical trails.
What stood out to me most was the moment consolation that by no means light with the miles.
It by no means precipitated hotspots, even on longer runs, which is type of superb. I notice that everybody’s foot form is totally different, however for me it matches virtually completely. And to assume, I hadn’t given Merrell an opportunity earlier than… I now perceive why it’s certainly one of Merrell’s prime path footwear.
General, the Nova 4 is a strong path shoe that provides consolation, sturdiness, and efficiency with none main drawbacks. It’s not a shoe that may blow you away with flashy-looking options, but it surely does its job properly and has earned its spot in my path operating rotation.
In case you’re in search of a dependable, snug, and sturdy path shoe, the Merrell Nova 4 is unquestionably price contemplating.
Who Examined It
Hello, I’m John, a 40-year-old runner who’s obsessed with pushing my limits. I performed faculty basketball and coached highschool basketball, however lately, I’ve traded the court docket for the paths, operating races that vary from 5Ks to 100 miles. The mountains are my favourite place to run; the rugged terrain and beautiful views make each step price it.
I additionally combine up my routine with cross-training, having fun with Nordic and backcountry snowboarding within the winter, and biking in the course of the summer season months. After I’m not operating or adventuring open air, you will discover me fly-fishing with my household.