I try to stay away from cotton shorts at all cost. Not only do they seem to wear out quickly, they don’t cut it for all-around use. The new Merrell Meridian shorts offer softshell nylon fabric for versatility and comfort combined with excellent styling, but how did they fare in my tests?
About the Merrell Meridian Shorts
The Merrell Meridian shorts are an all-day pair of shorts made for outdoor or urban adventures. Quick-drying fabric ensures they won’t get bogged down should you wear them hiking or trail running and the subdued styling fits in with any adventure–no matter the location. A few more features of the Meridian shorts include:
- Merrell Opti-Wick moisture management
- 96% nylon / 4% elastane woven fabric
- Gusseted crotch for greater mobility
- 11″ inseam
- Colors: Tan, Navy
- MSRP: $60
Merrell Meridian Shorts Review
The Meridian shorts are super-comfortable to wear and offer just the right length for both around town and trail adventures.
Above all, I appreciate the overall fit of the shorts due to the stretchy softshell fabric. Just that little bit of stretch gives just enough in a pinch to prevent any freedom of movement–essential for climbing or backcountry yoga (for those who engage in that sort of thing).
Front hand pockets are sizeable enough for good use and the zippered leg pocket is the perfect size and location for an iPhone or Blackberry–just a quick zip away.
Unfortunately, the Meridian shorts came with a big shortcoming. One of the first things that worried me were the plastic snaps on the front. They seemed flimsy and easily-broken. Well, after a couple months of wear, the top snap has broken off and the bottom one will likely follow. Looks like a trip to the dreaded fabric store for a suitable replacement.
Good Meridian
- Softshell stretchy fabric provides excellent comfort
- Low-key design is functional and stylish
- Dries Quickly
- Usable zippered lower-leg pocket
Bad Meridian
- Plastic snap closure broke
- Iron-on reflective logo wore off
Bottom Line: Merrell Meridian Shorts
If it weren’t for the broken snaps, I’d be completely stoked on these shorts. Unfortunately, this design flaw must be corrected before I can give them the nod. Look for improvements to the button design in the future.
Buy Now: Find Hiking Shorts at REI
2 Comments
Hi Jason,
Thanks for the review, and I’m glad you like the Meridian short. We definitely have addressed the snap issue for future production arriving in the Fall, and have replacement snaps being tested right now to send out for repairs.
Bill Inman
Merrell Apparel Business Director
Portland, Oregon
Bill
Thanks for replying and I’m glad that replacements will be issued. It’s unfortunate to have something like that happen with an otherwise excellent pair of shorts, but (as I mentioned), I knew you would address this issue.
What’s the process for getting replacement snaps? Should they contact Merrell Customer Support?