For the past couple of years I’ve spent most of my time running in barefoot shoes. I was excited this past winter to have a chance to mix things up (no pun intended) with the Merrell Mix Master Aeroblock Trail Running Shoes,courtesy of Merrell.
Merrell Mix Master Aeroblock Features:
UPPER/LINING
- Strobel construction offers flexibility and comfort
- Aeroblock® fabric upper with a closed cell mesh lining warms a protects against wind and weather keeping you comfortable in cool weather conditions
- EZ Clean™ finish sheds dirt and precipitation
- 2 mm EVA insole for comfort and shock absorption
- TPU overlay provides a secure fit
- Air mesh bellows tongue keeps debris out
- Reflective details for increased visibility in low light
- Eva removable footbed treated with aegis antimicrobial solution
MIDSOLE/OUTSOLE
- Low profile midsole 9 mm heel / 5 mm ball = 4mm drop
- Merrell Float Midsole is 10% thinner and 25% lighter to provide more feel and ground control
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- Forefoot shock absorption pad provides metatarsel protection
- 3.5 mm lugs for more street to trail feel
- Merrell mix sole / sticky rubber
- MSRP: $120
My Experience
The Merrell Mix Master Aeroblock Trail Running Shoes are a good all-around cold & crappy weather shoe for mixed conditions. The Aeroblock fabric in the upper is wind and water resistant, cutting down on the stuff that typically makes your feet cold and uncomfortable. The key word is resistant. If it’s a downpour, your crossing a lot of water, or puddle stomping, your feet will eventually get wet, so keep that in mind. Snow, mud, light rain, and wind are no match for Aeroblock. My feet stayed dry and comfortable in those conditions.
A side benefit of Aeroblock is these types of fabrics help retain heat. A bane in warm and hot weather but a boon in cold weather. While running in the teens with “regular” running socks my feet stayed warm. Even in 30 minute runs in the snow my feet stayed warm.
The Mix Master Aero does feature 4mm drop like a “typical” running shoe and plenty of cushion all around. While I am fully converted to minimalist running I did find the cushion to be nice on rockier trails. My feet didn’t get as fatigued as they usually would.
They feature a good mixed sole for running roads and trails. The 3.5 mm lugs give you enough traction in the dirt and mud. Their round profile provides a smooth feel when running on the road. They also offer plenty of flexibility in the footbed so running on the road doesn’t feel like you have boards under your feet.
My favorite small feature is some reflective details. While they aren’t huge, they help give a little extra visibility while running in low light.
The Good:
- Terrain Versatility
- Cool weather performance
- Cushioning was welcomed
The Bad:
- Get too hot in warm conditions
The Bottom Line
For the runner who can’t make up their mind where to run Merrell Mix Master Aeroblock Trail Running Shoes are a great cool weather choice.
Buy Now: Available at Backcountry.com
