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Merrell Chameleon 8
Editor’s Conclusion
I have always enjoyed the Merrell make, it has always lived up to my expectations and delivered performance and quality. Their shoes offer an experience to the user that puts them ahead of their competitors.
When I first saw the Merrell Chameleon 8, I was immediately drawn to it, the bold outsole that screamed 'I'm ready for adventure', the deep lugs that begged to be taken on heavy trails, and the robust exterior that dared to be reckoned with. Yes, they ooze power, strength, and importance, and their features back that sentiment up.
Ready for more?
When I first saw the Merrell Chameleon 8, I was immediately drawn to it, the bold outsole that screamed 'I'm ready for adventure', the deep lugs that begged to be taken on heavy trails, and the robust exterior that dared to be reckoned with. Yes, they ooze power, strength, and importance, and their features back that sentiment up.
Ready for more?
Merrell Chameleon 8 Review Facts
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
Lightweight
Durable
EVA midsole
Vibram XS Trek EVO outsole
Cons
Can fit on the narrow side
Key Features
Technologies
Hiking boots need to have certain technologies to make them superior in their field and the Merrell Chameleon 8 has plenty.
Vibram XS Trek Evo Outsole
If you’ve ever seen any of my previous reviews, you will know that the outsole of any shoe I purchase is one of the key features that must be outstanding, otherwise, I won't give it the time of day.
The Merrell Chameleon 8 benefits from a Vibram outsole. This technical compound is highly responsive to every step and is durable yet giving. It allows your foot to have the movability it requires but gives it the stability it needs and protection from even and potentially dangerous terrain.
Merrell Air Cushion
The Merrell Air Cushion is the perfect technology to provide stability and acts as great shock absorption, a welcomed aid to the heel on impact, especially with heavier ground.
EVA Foam Midsole
When I see a hiking shoe that has an EVA midsole, I can almost always certify that it's going to be of great comfort. EVA foam also helps disperse weight evenly and stability.
Kinetic Fit BASE
This removable insole contours like the foot - it is flexible, moveable, and comfortable. It provides support and protects your movements.
Lugs
The Chameleon 8 is fitted with 5mm deep lugs, perfect for heavy treks that need greater traction and grip. They will add value to your hikes in either wet or dry conditions.
Design
The Merrell Chameleon 8 is a hiking boot that looks the part as well as performs like it. It is favored with having Waterproof nubuck leather, a great material for both flexibility and durability. The shoes feature mesh uppers as well, excellent for breathability. They are equipped with a Bellows tongue to keep debris out, the lightweight FlexPlate technology is perfect for torsional rigidity.
They have a deep ankle arch, ideal for people who have prominent ankle bones. They also benefit from a tag at the back to help to ease the shoe on and off.
This is a robust and hardy boot, a protective piece of armor for your feet.
Hiking boots need to have certain technologies to make them superior in their field and the Merrell Chameleon 8 has plenty.
Vibram XS Trek Evo Outsole
If you’ve ever seen any of my previous reviews, you will know that the outsole of any shoe I purchase is one of the key features that must be outstanding, otherwise, I won't give it the time of day.
The Merrell Chameleon 8 benefits from a Vibram outsole. This technical compound is highly responsive to every step and is durable yet giving. It allows your foot to have the movability it requires but gives it the stability it needs and protection from even and potentially dangerous terrain.
Merrell Air Cushion
The Merrell Air Cushion is the perfect technology to provide stability and acts as great shock absorption, a welcomed aid to the heel on impact, especially with heavier ground.
EVA Foam Midsole
When I see a hiking shoe that has an EVA midsole, I can almost always certify that it's going to be of great comfort. EVA foam also helps disperse weight evenly and stability.
Kinetic Fit BASE
This removable insole contours like the foot - it is flexible, moveable, and comfortable. It provides support and protects your movements.
Lugs
The Chameleon 8 is fitted with 5mm deep lugs, perfect for heavy treks that need greater traction and grip. They will add value to your hikes in either wet or dry conditions.
Design
The Merrell Chameleon 8 is a hiking boot that looks the part as well as performs like it. It is favored with having Waterproof nubuck leather, a great material for both flexibility and durability. The shoes feature mesh uppers as well, excellent for breathability. They are equipped with a Bellows tongue to keep debris out, the lightweight FlexPlate technology is perfect for torsional rigidity.
They have a deep ankle arch, ideal for people who have prominent ankle bones. They also benefit from a tag at the back to help to ease the shoe on and off.
This is a robust and hardy boot, a protective piece of armor for your feet.
Comparison to Similar Hiking Shoes
HOKA Sky Arkali – Now these are without doubt showstoppers. They are bold, unique, sturdy, and scream 'look at me'. The shoes are designed with a PROFLY midsole for comfort, high abrasion rubber toe cap for added protection, and Rangi bottom foam for durable cushioning and a responsive feel. They have more of a sneaker-like look.
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX – Another exceptional brand that delivers high-quality footwear. The Salomon X Ultra 4 is a walking shoe that possesses all of the best technologies including GORE-TEX, SensiFit system, OrthoLite Sockliner, and Contagrip MA outsole - all features that will aid you on your hikes and give your feet a performance worthy ride.
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX – Another exceptional brand that delivers high-quality footwear. The Salomon X Ultra 4 is a walking shoe that possesses all of the best technologies including GORE-TEX, SensiFit system, OrthoLite Sockliner, and Contagrip MA outsole - all features that will aid you on your hikes and give your feet a performance worthy ride.
Verdict
Considering the technologies and features the Merrell Chameleon 8 is fitted with, I can honestly say that I think these hiking shoes are exceptional value for money and would be the ideal choice for a heavy hike.
They will no doubt provide you with comfort, flexibility, durability, and stability - all key aspects required to carry out any good hike.
They will no doubt provide you with comfort, flexibility, durability, and stability - all key aspects required to carry out any good hike.
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