North face vs. Merrell hiking shoes: What are the differences? Which one should you choose? If you’re wondering about these questions, you’ve come to the right place!
Top Rated Best Budget North Face Hiking Shoes for the money
Top Rated Best Budget Merrell Hiking Shoes for the money
North Face vs. Merrell Hiking Shoes: Comparison Table
Decent hiking shoes and boots are a must-have for any hiker as they provide needed protection for your feet from insects and the elements.
Many options are available, and North Face and Merrell are the most prominent names. Generally, whichever you choose, you will be fine. But it is still better to know the difference between them to make the most suitable choice.
| North Face Hiking Shoes | Merrell Hiking Shoes | |
| Strength |
|
|
| Price | From $100 to $200 | From $80 to around $250 |
Key Differences Between North Face And Merrell Hiking Shoes
Both the North Face And Merrell Hiking Shoes offer some great experiences for hikers. With that in mind, you may wonder, “which is better?” See more detail below.
Merrell
Merrell is one American brand founded in 1981 by Clark Matis, John Schweizer, and Randy Merrell.
Randy contributed his expertise and skills in making boots/shoes and other footwear, while John and Clark provided their experience and knowledge in skis as well as outdoor adventures.
They primarily focus on designing hiking boots that will be high-performance while affordable for any consumer.
During the years, although they focus on footwear, Merrell’s product range has expanded to clothing as well as other accessories vital for hikers on the trails.
Nowadays, Merrell is still one of the leading brands when talking about high-quality but affordable footwear and clothing for adventure and nature trips.
North Face
It is an American company that focuses on outdoor recreation products. It was founded in 1968 to provide climbers, and the logo was inspired by Half Dome in the Yosemite National Park.
This company delivers outdoor footwear, clothing, and related equipment. By the late 1990s, this brand had expanded beyond outdoor lovers by giving more focus to street couture.
Since 2000, it has been considered one streetwear style symbol label for many good reasons. In 2000, VF Corporation bought it.
Characteristic
- North Face Hiking Shoes
North Face hiking shoes and boots are the perfect choices for those wanting a comfortable and reliable model that delivers excellent grip and protects your feet well. Unfortunately, they are underrated in the outdoor equipment market.
We recommend North Face hiking boots and shoes for hikes in the summer. We also saw some of the best warm-weather hiking shoes on the market.
These provide the functionality you want on trails and are designed to be multi-purpose and lightweight. Not only is it ideal for outdoor trips, but it is also okay to use them for daily activities.
- Merrell Hiking Shoes
Merrell uses sustainable production to make high-quality shoes or boots that can last for an extended period, minimizing the environmental impact.
Merrell also uses both natural and synthetic materials, including models from polyester or leather as well as nylon textiles. Most of them come with mesh linings that improve breathability.
One of the most prominent technologies this brand uses is the M-Select Dry.
It is one waterproof membrane tech, similar to Gore-Tex. It allows our feet to breathe and protects them from insects and many elements.
Regarding outsoles, this brand relies on Vibram, one of the leading outsoles makers, renowned for the Arctic Grip soles and other similar ones, making shoes/boots grip better in any challenging terrain.
Finally, the insoles of Merrell models are the Kinetic Fit. This design delivers excellent support to your foot’s arch and heel.
Price
- North Face Hiking Shoes
North Face prices on its hiking boots and shoes vary quite a bit depending on the models, with options starting at approximately $100 and going up to $200.
- Merrell Hiking Shoes
This brand delivers a reasonable price for most models, starting at about $80 for its less-technical and lighter products. Prices can go up to about $250 for models designed to deliver impeccable comfort, protection, and grip.
Are They Worth The Price?
- North Face Hiking Shoes
Considering their quality, comfort, and the online consensus about their performance, North Face boots and shoes are some of the best you can get.
- Merrell Hiking Shoes
The short answer is yes. This brand delivers an excellent range of models that are reasonably priced when it comes to overall performance and quality.
Pros
North Face Hiking Shoes
- Very light.
- Highly durable.
- Multi-purpose.
- Stable when hiking.
- Deliver incredible grip.
- It could be breathable and waterproof.
- Maximizing stability and performance.
Merrell Hiking Shoes
- Good price.
- Highly durable.
- Come with mesh linings that add breathability.
- Use a waterproof membrane technology named M-Select Dry.
- Provides good protection for your feet.
- Work with one of the best makers of outsoles.
- Offer great support to your foot’s heel and arch.
North Face And Merrell Hiking Shoes: Key Differences
If you prefer affordable choices but have excellent quality, Merrell shoes are the way to go.
These boots are famous for their comfort and lightweight, and the various techs designed by this brand and utilized in its designs deliver an excellent option range.
However, if you’re searching for hiking boots/shoes that perfectly balance support and breathability, North Face will provide better choices.
In addition, North Face shoes are also very versatile, allowing you to use them daily besides hiking.
FAQs
Below here is common questions and answers related to North Face And Merrell Hiking Shoes.
Is Merrell a High-End Brand?
Merrell is one of the top brands recommended when talking about affordable yet high-quality shoes/boots as well as clothing for outdoor adventures.
Are Merrell Hiking Boots/Shoes Comfortable?
Yes. Merrell hiking boots/shoes are perfect options for standing on your feet all day. They are generally very comfortable right out of the box.
Are North Face Boots Any Good?
Most North Face boots are waterproof and deliver excellent balance and traction on any terrain, including uneven ones. So whether you move on or off trails, you will not feel off-balanced
How Long Do Merrell Hiking Shoes Last?
In most cases, these hiking shoes last about 350 to 500 miles. Here are some signs that you should change your boots:
- The traction is not what it used to be, as the lugs and tread are worn down.
- Your foot is not being held in place by the upper as before.
- You experience any soreness and pain in your joints that you did not feel before.
What Company Owns Merrell?
This company has been acquired by Wolverine World Wide, a shoe industry giant.
What Is Merrell Known For?
It is a manufacturing company of footwear products. It was founded in 1981 by Clark Matis, John Schweizer, and Randy Merrell.
How Often Should I Replace My Hiking Shoes?
You might have to replace your hiking boots every three to six months, which is equivalent to every 350 to 500 miles, depending on usage.
Are Merrell Shoes Good for Bunions?
The answer is Yes. Many Merrell shoes are made with flexible materials and feature a roomy toe box, making them a solid option for hikers with bunions.
