Merrell Hoffman Shirt Features:

• 100% polyester flannel
• Merrell Opti-Wick fabric for moisture transfer
• Weight: 16 oz (size large)
• 30” center back length
• Single left chest pocket
• Three color options: Boulder (tested), Michigan, and Lava Plaids
• MSRP $65

Merrell Hoffman Shirt Review

After a good hard winter’s workout, there’s nothing like slipping into a comfortable shirt to lounge around the house after your warm shower.  But what if you have to gather up some wood for the fire later, or take on a list of chores after watching the game?  In those cases, a shirt that can do double duty is doubly appreciated.

Merrell’s Hoffman shirt uses a midweight polyester fabric that is slightly coarser than cotton flannel, but still fairly comfortable against the skin.  The cut is perfect for layering over a T-shirt, but slim enough to wear under a jacket.  Warmth is reasonable for a midweight flannel, especially when worn as a top layer.

If you have to return to the active outdoors, no need to change clothes: Merrell’s Opti-wick technology moves sweat away from your skin, and allows the material to dry quickly afterward.  The fabric is durable enough for hiking, camping, or general outdoor activity; this year, the Hoffman was my shirt of choice for our annual Christmas tree cutting, as well as for sawing the tree apart after the holidays.  And when your work is over, you’re already in your comfortable shirt again.

Calico cat not included

Good Hoffman

• Durable fabric construction
• Effective moisture transfer

Bad Hoffman

• Less soft against the skin compared to cotton flannel

Bottom Line: Merrell Hoffman Shirt

Equally suitable for lounging in front of the TV or working outside in the yard, Merrell’s Hoffman is a versatile flannel option for kicking around the campfire or coasting your way through a weekend.

Buy Now: Visit Altrec.com

Merrell Darrien Jacket Features

• 100% polyester fabric
• Merrell Opti-Warm synthetic insulation
• DWR finish
• Dual hand pockets
• Internal zippered storage pocket
• Taffeta lining
• Adjustable drawcord hem
• 4 color options
• MSRP $119

Merrell Darrien Jacket Review

Merrell specializes in making highly functional outdoor apparel that is also very stylish for everyday casual use.  The Darrien is a perfect example, as illustrated by the following conversation I had with my wife as I was headed out the door to work one morning:

Wife:  I really like that jacket.

Me:  Yeah … it’s a new one.  I’m testing it for hiking.

Wife:  But it looks too nice for hiking!

So I guess one downside of the Darrien is that people on the trail might mistake you for someone who wandered away from the office for a while … but that’s not such a bad problem to have.

(And come to think of it, I am someone who wanders away from the office to hit the trail … only I usually change clothes first.)

On the trails ... or off to the rat race

The Darrien is constructed as a bomber-style jacket, with warmth provided by 100g of Merrell’s proprietary Opti-Warm insulation, and a very soft taffeta finish on the entire interior surface.  The external surface has good tear-resistance and a comfortably coarse finish, along with DWR coating that is sufficient to hold off light rainfall.

Silky taffeta interior lining; interior zip pocket

Fit of the jacket through the torso is slightly bulky, providing plenty of room for layering underneath, but which might be a problem if you’re hauling a day pack over the top of it. I’d love this jacket much more if it were just a little bit thinner, or if the torso cut was trimmed down just slightly.

Nevertheless, the combined comfort and warmth of this jacket is outstanding, and during a fall camping trip, the Darrien became an ideal “Wow, it got cold once the sun went down – I need to throw on something warm!” solution for whiling away the evening hours before climbing into the tent.

Good Darrien

• Very fashionable styling for trail or casual use
• Excellent insulation
• Comfortable overall feel

Bad Darrien

• Feels bulky underneath a backpack

Bottom Line: Merrell Darrien Jacket

Equally suited for winter hiking or cool-weather casual wear, Merrell’s Darrien jacket is an attractive choice, whether you’re headed to the office or escaping from it.

Buy Now: Visit Merrell.com

Merrell Chameleon Features:

• Fabric construction: 96% polyester / 4% elastene
• Merrell Aeroblock technology
• Durable Water Repellant (DWR) finish
• Low profile snap closure
• Double needle stitched seams
• Articulated knees
• Bonded leg zip pocket stores
• Zip-secure slash hand pockets
• Rear patch pockets
• Snap-adjustable leg cuffs
• MSRP $89

Merrell Chameleon Pants Review

Problem: Product reviewer receives pair of cold-weather hiking gear during a warm Indian summer in coastal California. Solution? Take the pants underground – not to the black market, but to subterranean caves where temperatures are cold and conditions are challenging.

Such was the opportunity I had while exploring a network of caves at Lava Beds National Monument, where temperatures drop into the 30s, crouching and crawling around tests your range of motion, and commando crawling tests the toughness and durability of the fabric.

Caving at Lava Beds National Monument

For the most part, the Merrell Chameleon Pants performed quite well. The articulated knees and stretchy 4% elastene construction allow full range of motion with ease. The interior surface has a brushed finish that’s comfortable against the skin, but the exterior is rugged enough to repeatedly brush against irregular rocky surfaces without worry of tearing.

Merrell uses Aeroblock fabric technology with the Chameleon, which wicks moisture effectively while still providing solid wind resistance. The entire exterior has a DWR coating for water resistance if you get stuck in a deluge.

Durable fabric construction; classic hand pockets plus secure zip pocket for cell phone on R thigh; low-profile waist snap

One occasional problem I found is that the low-profile waist snap, designed for comfort underneath a pack belt, sometimes comes unsnapped when my knees are tucked up closely to my chest. Granted, I might be carrying a few pounds more than I should be right now … but since the snap stays nicely in place when I’m standing or walking, I’d like to trust that it will stay secure when I’m in unusual positions as well.

Styling of the Chameleon is equally suited for trails or casual use, and they’re comfortable enough to go from one setting to another with ease. One minor drawback (noted by my wife) is that the fabric makes a slight whooshing noise when rubbing against each other, even when the ankle cuffs are snapped narrow.

Good Chameleon

• Comfortable, durable fabric
• Versatile styling
• Good range of motion
• Solid wind and water resistance

Bad Chameleon

• Waist snap should be more secure
• Mild whooshing, if that’s an issue for you

Bottom Line: Merrell Chameleon Pants

If the weather’s turning cold and you need a single all-purpose pant for a variety of activities, Merrell’s Chameleon is strong and comfortable enough for virtually any task.

Buy Now: Visit REI.com

Merrell Tough Glove Features:

• Full grain leather upper wraps the foot
• Merrell Omni-Fit™ lacing system provides a precise, glove-like fit
• Internal support construction secures the midfoot for optimal fit and support
• Non-removable microfiber footbed treated with Aegis® antimicrobial solution resists odor
• 4mm compression molded EVA midsole cushions
• 1mm forefoot shock absorption plate maintains forefoot flexibility and protects the foot by distributing pressure
• 0 mm ball to heel drop keeps you connected to your terrain
• Vibram® Trail Glove Sole/ Rubber Compound TC-1
• Weight: 14.2 oz (pair)
• Colors: Brown/Honey (tested), Aluminum, Black
• MSRP: $120

Merrell Tough Glove Barefoot Shoes Review

With all the hubbub about barefoot shoes, I took my time hopping into a pair. While I’m surrounded by Vibram Five Fingers fans, it took my friends at Merrell to finally get me into the groove. I opted for what I call the “Office Glove” since they are some of the first truly office-friendly barefoot shoes on the market. Yeah, you can go with VFF shoes in the office, but you end up looking like Adam Sandler on “Mr. Deeds”. Yeah, not so bueno.

Giving the Tough Gloves the rundown, they are built with a proprietary Vibram outsole and a minimalist midsole that offers a glove-like fit. The integrated insole features soft, suede-like materials that cradles your foot in all-day comfort. Since they are such a tight fit, you’ll want to keep in mind that you need to have ultrathin socks. Still, getting the Tough Gloves on is a bit of a chore. you have to open up the laces and slowly wiggle your way in. It does get better over time, but it’s never as fast as slipping into a regular pair of shoes.

Once you’re in, lacing them up is quite easy and the Omni-Fit Lacing System really cradles your feet well. A single pull does the job and sets you up for all-day comfort. The toebox has good wiggle room to allow your toes to stretch out — thus providing a comfortable fit for sitting, standing and walking.

Adding to the well-thought-out construction, the suede-like lining keeps your feet firmly secured in place. This is critical to the overall performance and feel of the shoes.

The shoes don’t have much of a break-in period, but I did. It took me a couple of wears to really enjoy the experience. As someone with extremely-flat feet, I’ve long been a user of SOLE and Superfeet insoles. But, in recent years, I’ve become much more conscious of my stride and have focused on being a forefoot runner and walker. That has made it easy to transition into the Tough Gloves. I love the strenghening I feel in my arch and calves when wearing these shoes and know it is helping my feet, ankles, knees, hips and back.

I’m really enjoying wearing the Tough Gloves around town, at the office and casual walking. I do find that the low-profile nature of these shoes does cause me to drag my pants on the ground or step on the cuffs, so keep that in mind with longer pairs of jeans as they will drag more and you will occasionally step on your pant legs.

The outsole provides good traction overall except in wet conditions. I know… I was a bit surprised there as I walked into my garage with wet feet and noticed a general lack of traction with each step. I think a softer durometer rubber may help there. Moisture from the inside is also a little problematic as there are no vents or mesh material to aid in breathability — something I’d like to see on the next version.

Good Tough Glove

• Comfortable, glove-like fit (you’d hope so)
• Good overall feel with just enough protection, but not too much
• Much more office-friendly than Vibram Five Fingers
• Surprisingly enough, joint pain is relieved
• Uppers are wearing well with little signs of wear

Bad Tough Glove

• Breathability could be improved
• Difficult to get on at first
• Kind of have a dance shoe look
• Wet traction could be better

Bottom Line: Merrell Tough Glove Shoes Review

As the first “Office-Friendly” barefoot shoe, the Tough Glove provides a good way to get onto the barefoot wave in a non-VFF way. You can easily wear them around town and at work and enjoy the benefits of going minimalist.

Buy Now: Visit Altrec to buy the Merrell Tough Gloves

Merrell Spring River Shirt Features:

• Merrell Opti-Wick™ fabric transfers moisture away from your skin and dries quickly to keep you comfortable
• 100% polyester
• SPF 20+
• TPU reinforced chest pocket stabilizes contents with a tech-savvy flair
• Raglan sleeves for mobility and comfort under carrying straps
• Grosgrain tape detail on side vents
• Six plaid colorways
• MSRP: $60

Merrell Spring River Shirt Review

Built with Merrell’s Opti-Wick fabric, the Spring River Shirt is not only a great-looking shirt for work, but that also means it plays well when pushed. Some might opt to use this shirt for dedicated outdoor activities, but I prefer to use it as a multi-use office/play/impromptu adventure shirt.

Starting out with the fit, the size Medum fits my 5’10″ 170 lb frame to perfection. It’s neither baggy nor tight anywhere… in other words, perfect. There are many nice features that I like about the Spring River Shirt. The reinforced chest pocket offers a unique flair and simplifies the look since there’s no stitched-on front pocket. It provides a clean and unique look.

The length lends itself well to a casual, untucked look (my preference by far). But, it can go tucked to kick it up a notch for that important meeting or night out on the town.

Not much to complain about on the Spring River, but I will mention a couple of things. The collar tends to spread out, Travolta-style during the course of the day. I wish it would hold its shape just a little better or that the second button were about an inch higher to minimize the spread. It also does get stinky after about 2 days of wear, so keep that in mind for extended trips without washing machines.

Good Spring River

• The perfect cut (I think)
• Comfortable fabric that wears well at the office or impromptu adventures
• Cool features make it stand out (pocket)
• Resists staining well

Bad Spring River

• Collar can spread out Travolta-style over the course of the day
• Two days wear max… then it needs washing

Bottom Line: Merrell Spring River Shirt

Ubiquitous, but unique all at the same time, the Merrell Spring River Shirt offers a cool twist on the plaid outdoorsy shirt. Equally at home at the office or at play, this one is a great option for the active desk jockey.

Buy Now: Visit Merrell.com

Merrell Lenticular Jacket Features:

• Merrell Aeroblock provides high wind-resistance and breathability (100% polyester w/DWR Finish)
• Merrell Adventure Rest™ lightweight protection transforms into neck pillow
• Fully lined with soft Conductor™ Ultralight fabric for cozy warmth
• Raglan sleeves enhance mobility
• Slight droptail adds coverage from precipitation and back spray
• Zip-secure chest
• Higher zip-secure hand pockets allow access when carrying a pack
• Colors: Dorado, Amazon (tested), Satellite, Black, Boulder
• MSRP: $99

Merrell Lenticular Jacket Review

I remember seeing the Lenticular Jacket at Outdoor Retailer a year ago. At the time, I was bleary-eyed from seeing all kinds of gear and while it did capture my attention, it took awhile for me to come around and want to give it a whirl for myself. The object is simple… take a great, lightweight jacket and instead of just stuffing it away in a small stuff pocket, why not turn that pocket into a travel pillow? Kapow… now that’s something!

The jacket itself is very well cut and featured for a mere $99. You’re getting a big bang for the buck with this jacket. The ultrasoft Conductor fabric lining adds a ton to the overall feel and versatility of this jacket. It simply surrounds you in soft comfort while still remaining breathable. Everything about this jacket is surprisingly-good with such a low pricetag. Not that I wouldn’t expect a top-notch jacket from Merrell, but at this price, you’ll see a lot of compromises, which is not the case for the Lenticular.

I opted for the Medium size (I’m 5’11″, 170 lbs) and it fits me 100% perfectly. The fit is athletic, but not crazy-tight athletic. As I see it, the jacket’s fit is just how any jacket should be. It has just the right roominess so as not to constrict movement in any way, but nothing more. The drop tail comes in handy for keeping your backside covered on the bike or while carrying a pack (which often makes your jacket creep up on you). Sleeve-length is just right also.

The Conductor lining extends the wearable lifespan of the Lenticular Jacket. It provides great warmth and always has a nice, soft feel next to your skin.

The exterior has been put to the rain test as of late and always comes out of it bone dry on the inside with thousands of little water beads hoping to penetrate the exterior.

Naturally, I felt I must use the jacket in travel pillow mode to write this post. Between the long day and the comfort of the pillow, I’m drifting off here-and-there, so hopefully this is coming out coherent. I just quipped to my wife that this jacket would have been a great travel jacket for our red eye flight to Florida last year — oh would it have been nice to have!!!

Switching to travel pillow mode is easy, simply unzip the inner back pocket. My strategy was always to get each sleeve packed into the front of the pillow on each side, then fill in with the jacket body after that (you can see that in action in the above video). It all packs away well and is truly a lifesaver while traveling.

Good Lenticular Jacket

• Killer travel jacket (yup, that pillow will come in handy)
• Excellent price point
• Overall quality is very good
• Love the athletic cut and how well the Medium fits me.
• Drop tail keeps your hindside protected.
• Oh yeah… did I mention that it turns into a nifty travel pillow?
• Stylish good looks for all-around adventure

Bad Lenticular Jacket

• Travel pillow mode isn’t quite as good as a dedicated travel pillow (but way more versatile)
• If you don’t tuck the travel pillow pocket back in properly when not in use, it can be a bit annoying when sitting
• Great for travel and as an outdoors generalist, but not my ideal for highly aerobic activities

Bottom Line: Merrell Lenticular Jacket

The Merrell Lenticular Jacket offers a ton of features for the low $99 pricepoint. While the jacket itself kicks serious butt, the added versatility of a travel pillow takes this great value over-the-top.

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Lenticular Jacket

Royal/navy color combo; gray/black also available

Features:

• 100% polyester with Opti-wick moisture management
• 30+ UPF
• Stretch mesh body
• ½-zip collar for ventilation
• Lycra stash pockets for arm warmer or gel storage
• MP3 pocket
• Silicone grip on ends of arm warmers

Donald hard at work - product testing

Merrell Dualtrek Shirt Review

I’m not much of a “form-fitting” guy; I like tops that are cut a little loosely, while providing good sun coverage and preventing chafing or hot spots.  The shirt component of the Dualtrek scores very highly in all those areas, and rides very comfortably during my multi-hour runs.

Temperature regulation is dialed in nicely here as well, keeping you properly equipped in a wide range of temperatures.  The arm warmers provide nice insulation for cool mornings; I’ve worn them in the low 40s, and estimate they’d be still be comfortable into the high 30s.  When the weather heats up, you peel off the arm warmers, and Merrell’s Opti-wick fabric does an outstanding job of moving moisture away from the skin for ventilation.  The zip collar provides even more air movement for hot days, and I’ve worn this shirt comfortably with temperatures in the high 80s.

Arm warmer tucked in side pocket; stitching of internal mp3 player adjacent

The arm warmers stay in place very securely with their silicone grippers, and tuck away into the side pockets of the shirt when you’re done with them.  These side pockets provide adequate storage for arm warmers or gels.  The internal mp3 pocket is nice for keys, but might be on the small side for some media players.

Over-the-thumb arm warmers

Another point about the arm warmers is that they’re the over the thumb kind.  This provides full coverage and prevents exposure when combined with gloves, but makes wearing a watch or GPS tricky.  You either strap the watch over the top of it – which means you have to unstrap it to remove the arm warmer – or strap the watch underneath, where you can’t read it without peeling down the arm warmer.

Good Dualtrek

• Great temperature regulation in a wide temperature range
• Outstanding comfort with multi-hour use
• Very effective ventilation for warm temps
• The royal/navy blue scheme is pretty good looking, isn’t it?

Bad Dualtrek

• mp3 pocket could be bigger, or just used as a key pocket
• I’d prefer a wrist-length arm warmer

Bottom Line: Merrell Dualtrek

If you plan to stay on the trail from “cool and foggy” to “bright and warm” – or vice versa – Merrell’s Dualtrek is a very solid option to serve you well in both conditions.

Buy Now: Merrell Dualtrek at Merrell.com

In a recent visit to Runner’s Corner (my local running store), I’ve been thinking hard about switching to zeroed shoes and trying the Five Fingers designs. With my flat feet, I’m confident I could improve my mechanics and reduce joint pain. I’m looking forward to these new designs as a stylish-looking alternative to the admittedly-funky Vibram Five Fingers shoes.

Full press release below.

ROCKFORD, Mich. (June 14, 2010) – Merrell®, a leading outdoor footwear and apparel brand known for out-of-the-box comfort and versatility, and Vibram®, the world leader in advanced performance sole design and makers of the well known Five Fingers® barefoot concept, exclusively collaborate to create an outsole design that aids in multi-directional movement and adaptability. The end result is Merrell Barefoot, a collection of minimalist, lightweight, versatile and efficient footwear. The collection is a progression of shoes that meet the varying needs of outdoor enthusiasts. All will be available at retail and on merrell.com in February 2011.

“As minimalist footwear and barefoot running continue to stay at the height of discussion and in the heart of the enthusiast, we saw the clear need to bring barefoot outdoors, beyond running and fitness,” said Clark Matis, original founder and current designer and developer at Merrell. “Having been with Merrell for 26 years now, it is exciting to see the brand continue to push the design boundaries in the outdoor industry. Our partnership with Vibram, and its expertise in barefoot running and fitness, allows us to introduce the ideal barefoot designs for all outdoor activities. Merrell Barefoot provides a good balance of foot freedom, surface protection and cushioning to help outdoor enthusiasts avoid injury and strengthen their muscles while doing what they love

“Merrell is a long-term partner of ours and we are excited to extend the benefits of barefoot alternatives in the outdoors,” said Tony Post, President & CEO of Vibram USA.

“For feet to be healthy, we believe they need to be stimulated and exercised, which will in turn improve the body’s balance and agility. On that premise, we collaborated with Merrell to develop an exclusive outsole that aids in stride efficiency and adaptability for all outdoor terrain.”

Merrell Barefoot blends minimalist design for added foot freedom with specific traction zones to meet the needs of any terrain – from street to trail. The designs help engage the feet for a more natural stride by moving the wearer off the heel and encouraging forward momentum to a mid-foot landing with lower impact and a more aligned and efficient gait. Stimulated muscles increase core strength, amp up agility and build the body’s ability to burn more calories.

For men, Trail Glove is an athletic trail runner for a close-to-terrain ride. For scrambling across creeks and crags with natural ease, True Glove is a streamlined, all-terrain multi-sport shoe. Both feature synthetic leather and mesh uppers and the proprietary Merrell Omni-Fit™ lacing system that quickly cinches for a precise fit. An internal support construction secures the mid-foot for optimal fit and responsiveness. Rounding out Merrell

Barefoot for men is Tough Glove, a foot-conforming soft leather style, designed with ultimate versatility for wear around town or into a spontaneous game of ultimate Frisbee.

Merrell also brings an entire category of barefoot fit and function to women’s-specific outdoor footwear. These patterns designed and engineered by women let enthusiasts get closer to the terrain on which they play in three new Merrell Barefoot designs. Pace Glove, a low-profile trail runner, is constructed with a breathable mesh upper, and advanced protection underfoot is mapped with minimal cushioning where it’s most needed. A Merrell Omni-Fit lace system quickly pulls tight for an individualized fit and optimal responsiveness on uneven terrain.

Two multi-activity feminine styles are ideal barefoot companions for on and off trail adventures and great for a commute to work, a walk around town, or a casual hike with friends. Power Glove takes outdoor style to the next level in a soft leather ankle high design with three Easy Z-Rap™ Velcro closures that secure the foot for simple, lightweight performance. Pure Glove is a super low-profile Lycra mesh Mary Jane with a hook and loop closure strap for a precise and secure fit.

More Info: Visit Merrell.com

Merrell CT Converge 2 Features:

• M-Fit™ Semi-Curved Gender-Specific Anatomical Last
• Reflective Materials for high visibility
• Merrell e-Phase™ Moisture Management Air Mesh
• Recycled upper mesh and Strobel board
• Outlast® Heat Management Sock Liner
• DWR Treatment provides durable water resistance
• Asymmetrical Heel Strike reduces impact rates
• iR5™ Rubber for high impact abrasion
• Gait Phase (gPHASE™) Midsole Cushioning
• Heel Transition Channels encourage natural motion
• Full Length g3PHASE™ for maximum cushioning
• Midfoot Torsional-I-Bridge (MTB™) provides midfoot rigidity and alignment
• Multiple Forefoot Flex Grooves
• Weight: 10.7 oz each
• MSRP: $105

Merrell CT Converge 2 Running Shoes Review

Merrell is definitely more well-known for their hiking and trail shoes, but have recently introduced a few road shoes to the line. At first, I was skeptical, but after running them for awhile, I can say their running shoes are worth a look.

As with all Merrell offerings, they are very comfortable out of the gate and continue to cradle your foot after miles of use. The uppers are very breathable — perfect for mid-Summer pavement pounding. My feet have kept their cool very well in conjunction with my ultralight  Lorpen socks. The full stride is met with a consistent feel and smooth fore-to-aft cushioning and support.

The extra-supportive heel cup combined with the torsional bridge really provides a solid and reactive running surface. I feel like the entire shoe is working with me in a smooth motion.

One thing I’ve noticed, however, is the lack of cushioning underneath my big toe. I’ve never had a shoe feel like this before, but cushioning seems very thin in this location and my toe became a bit sensitive over the course of a run. The only other issue I’ve had is the round holes in the forefoot tread do tend to attract little pebbles in them.

Good CT Converge 2

• Extremely stable overall–especially in the heel
• Good overall comfort and cushioning (except under big toe)
• Excellent road grip
• Good for distance running
• Feels light and comfortable
• Heel lining material makes for easy on/off and reduces slip

Bad CT Converge 2

• Cushioning the under big toe is lacking
• Round tread pattern in forefoot attracts rocks
• DWR isn’t as waterproof as other Merrell offerings

Bottom Line: Merrell CT Converge 2 Running Shoes

A great expansion in the Merrell lineup. The CT Converge 2 is a worthy running shoe, but does face some stiff competition from more well-known running brands.

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Running Shoes

Features

• 100% polyester
• 45+ UPF fabric
• Opti-Wick™ moisture management technology
• Crepe mesh liner
• Double-layer mesh back ventilation panel
• Rear zipper pocket
• Elastic waist with slots in webbing belt for energy gels
• Reflective logo
• Weight: 190g  (6.7 oz.)
• 7” inseam
• MSRP $45

Merrell Badlands Shorts Review

At first glance, these might be a little more substantial than you’re used to: they’re somewhat heavier and have a slightly longer inseam than many shorts out there.  And they come with a belt that may or may not be useful.  That’s why it’s nice to take things for a test drive.

The Badlands made a great first impression, and shot to the top of my rotation in a hurry.  After my first 20-miler in them, they became my shorts of choice for long training days – and in May, I wore them at the hot, hilly Quicksilver 50-Miler in San Jose.  They’re comfortable enough to wear for hours at a time, and tough enough to withstand virtually any trail conditions you encounter.

Test lab at Quicksilver 50M

The shell of the shorts is a 100% polyester fabric that feels very durable – a feature I got to experience firsthand on a recent wilderness run.  I took one nasty spill that resulted in scrapes and bleeding up the entire side of my thigh, but the shorts emerged unscathed.  (Don’t ever say I don’t sacrifice for these reviews.)

One unusual aspect of the shell is that it has something of a gloss to it, which is noticeable primarily in that I often wipe my sunglasses on the leg of my shorts during long training days.  Unlike most cloth-like tech fabrics on other shorts I’ve tried, the Badlands shell doesn’t absorb any moisture, which makes sunglass cleaning a bit of a challenge.

front view; elastic belt on waistband

Another oddity is the elastic belt around the waistband in place of a standard lace-tie system.  However, elasticity of the waistband is quite secure on its own, to the point where the belt seems more of a flourish than a necessity. (Ironically, when reviewing Merrell’s Bison pants, I complained about the lack of a belt.  I appear to be having some bad belt karma lately.)

Rear view; mesh ventilation panel at top

Moisture management of these shorts is excellent, as Merrell’s Opti-Wick fabric pulls moisture away from key sweat zones.  The shell is very quick to dry, and a rear mesh ventilation panel helps keep you cool in hot conditions.  The internal mesh brief liner assists with moisture transfer as well, and stays comfortably in place even after several hours on the trail.

Good Badlands

• Super comfortable
• Highly durable
• Great moisture management
• Long enough inseam for sun protection and chafe guarding

Bad Badlands

• Slightly heavy
• The sunglass cleaning thing – I pack a paper towel with me now.

Bottom Line: Merrell Badlands Shorts

I’ve found the overall performance, durability and comfort of Merrell’s Badlands to be outstanding – so much, in fact, that these have become my new shorts of choice for ultrarunning.  In my world, there isn’t any higher compliment than that.

Buy Now: Search for Merrell Shorts