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Having done lab tests and actual runs cements Nova 3’s position as Merrell’s number 1 trail shoe. It offers incredible stability and support for extended outdoor adventures and ensures we’re protected throughout. We’re impressed by its Vibram outsole that blends grip and durability beautifully. 

Nova 3 features the softer Vibram TC5+ rubber. True enough, our durometer registers only 75.5 HC vs. the 85.2 HC average. This is equipped with 3.5 mm Traction Lugs, emphasizing grip. Despite the softer rubber, Nova 3 reassures its durability by beating the average in our Dremel test. It serves as additional protection underfoot without sacrificing traction. 

Adding to our shield is the 34.1/24.2 mm stack height that offers plenty of cushioning. We note the extra FloatPro Foam pod in the heel for softer landings and the rock plate in the forefoot for extra protection.

This is balanced by a firm midsole, enhancing stability and support. Our durometer confirms a close-to-the-average 24.0 HA. Ensuring a steady ride is the set of midfoot sidewalls that create a bathtub effect so that our foot sits inside the midsole, not on top of it.

Unfortunately, Nova 3 sits quite heavy at 10.8 oz (305g) vs. the 10.4 oz (296g) average. We hope it sheds some weight in the next version to make it suitable for faster paces.

In the 7th iteration of the Trail Glove series, we discovered the best barefoot Merrell trail shoe. Through intensive lab and run tests, we learned that TG7 offers the true minimalist experience with its grounded profile and high flexibility. We’re amazed by its exceptional agility and the unmatched traction of its Vibram outsole.

We measured a low 16.1/16.0 mm stack with our caliper, which essentially features a forgivable 0.1 mm drop. This offers a genuine barefoot experience with TG7’s high abyss feedback. Our durometer shows the cushion is a dense 28.8 HA, which balances support and firmness perfectly. 

Even on fast corners, we feel surprisingly stable since we can easily control the midsole. TG7 features a highly flexible platform as it scores one of the lowest numbers in our bend test — 10.5N, 65.0% more adaptive than average. This enhances comfort, even for long walks and hikes.

TG7 is supported by a Vibram outsole that ensures traction through its maze-like pattern, 2.5 mm lugs, and softer-than-average 76.4 HC. We have no instances of slipping on loose gravel and soil.

What we find lacking in the outsole is durability. Its soft rubber is only 1.8 mm thin, which makes it more vulnerable to premature wear. We recommend using them for light to moderate terrains only, not hard surfaces such as asphalt and concrete.

We discovered through intensive lab tests and actual excursions that Agility Peak 5 offers the best protection among Merrell trail running shoes. With a nearly 40-mm stack, it offers exceptional comfort as the cushion absorbs much of our landing impact. It has the highly-esteemed Vibram Megagrip outsole with strategically placed lugs as our weapon for traction and defense against unwanted elements.

We’re impressed with AP5’s outstanding grip on diverse terrains. The outsole features widely spaced 4.5-mm Traction Lugs — making it suitable for technical conditions. After putting the rubber against our brutal Dremel test, the Vibram Megagrip promises a solid lifespan as it shows less indentation than the average.

Not only are our feet protected, but our muscles are also saved from the impact of repeated landings thanks to the heavily cushioned midsole. AP5 rises to an above-average stack, notably its 39.2 mm heel, which shields us from sharp rocks and protruding roots. On top of that, we found a rock plate in the mid-to-forefoot areas for additional protection. 

Because of the skyscraper heel and modest forefoot, the heel drop is a significant 13.4 mm, which may feel too steep for midfoot and forefoot strikers. We find AP5 ideal for heel strikers.

Merrell FlyStrike proves its versatility in the lab and on the trails, boasting a padded yet breathable upper and a flexible midsole ideal for various outdoor pursuits. Priced at just $90, it offers excellent value for its multipurpose nature and is even 14.3% cheaper than the average Merrell running shoe.

Its exceptional flexibility allows for seamless transitions between activities, whether it's light running, hiking, or casual wear. With our bend test result showing 36.1% greater malleability than average, it enhances comfort for extended adventures.

The upper's ventilation design earns a commendable 4/5 breathability score on our smoke test. Our microscope reveals numerous perforations all over, explaining the free airflow despite its padded nature. The plush tongue, measuring 10.1 mm compared to the average 6.4 mm, ensures comfort without lace bite. While most breathable uppers sacrifice durability, FlyStrike exceeds the norm by resisting our Dremel and earning a 4/5 score on longevity.

However, the slim 17.0 mm forefoot cushioning results in an excessive 17.0 mm drop. This may feel too steep for most runners and will only be comfortable for a niche market: those with Achilles and lower-leg issues.