Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s Review

First Impressions of Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s

The Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s promise a trail-ready hiking experience in a sneaker-like package. Merrell advertises these shoes as a women’s-specific design offering comfort and confidence on diverse terrain, with a focus on sustainability. The combination of hiking performance with a casual, sneaker aesthetic immediately piqued my interest, as I often find myself transitioning from urban environments to trails.

I needed a versatile hiking shoe that could handle moderate trails without the bulkiness of traditional hiking boots. The promise of a sneaker-like fit and reliable traction sold me on giving the Bravada 2 a try. Upon unboxing, the design struck me as modern and sleek. The Bravada 2 feels surprisingly lightweight. The materials appear high-quality, and I appreciated the visible effort towards using recycled components.

Compared to my Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX (a more traditional hiking boot) and my trail running shoes (Saucony Peregrine 13), the Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s seemed to strike a nice balance. The Salomon offers superior ankle support but feels clunky for casual wear, while the Saucony is nimble but lacks the underfoot protection needed for rocky trails. I was excited about the Bravada 2’s potential to bridge this gap. I was cautiously optimistic. The shoe looked promising, and I couldn’t wait to hit the trails and see how they performed.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s on a moderate 5-mile hike in the local state park. The terrain consisted of dirt trails with some rocky sections and a few stream crossings. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal for hiking. The shoes felt comfortable right out of the box, requiring no break-in period.

The Merrell Quantum Grip outsole provided excellent traction on the dirt trails and even on the slightly damp rocks near the stream. The sneaker-like flexibility allowed for a natural stride, and I didn’t experience any hotspots or discomfort. One slight concern was breathability. Although the mesh lining is recycled, my feet felt a bit warmer than they would in a more ventilated trail runner.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple hikes and everyday wear around town, the Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s are holding up reasonably well. The knit upper shows minimal signs of wear, and the outsole still provides confident grip. Cleaning has been simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and debris.

However, I’ve noticed some slight compression in the EVA foam midsole. This is especially noticeable during longer hikes. It resulted in less cushioning than I initially experienced. Compared to my Altra Lone Peak trail runners, which offer superior cushioning for long distances, the Bravada 2 falls a bit short in overall comfort after several hours on the trail.

Breaking Down the Features of Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s

Specifications

• The Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s features a knit upper that provides a sock-like fit. This design is intended to hug the foot without creating pressure points.
• They are constructed with 100% recycled laces and webbing, reflecting Merrell’s commitment to sustainability. This not only reduces environmental impact but also speaks to the brand’s ethical considerations.
• The shoe incorporates a 100% recycled breathable mesh lining, designed to enhance airflow and manage moisture. It is beneficial to keeping feet dry and comfortable during activity.
• The 50% recycled removable EVA foam footbed provides cushioning and support. Its removable design makes it easy to replace or clean as needed.
• A 100% recycled mesh footbed cover further enhances breathability and comfort. The cover also features NXT lining to prevent odor.
• A molded nylon arch shank provides stability and support on uneven terrain. It reduces the risk of foot fatigue during long hikes.
• A rock plate protects the foot from sharp rocks and debris. This allows for confident stepping on rugged trails.
• The 10% recycled EVA foam midsole offers cushioning and shock absorption. This contributes to overall comfort during hikes.
• The Merrell Quantum Grip durable rubber outsole delivers exceptional traction. It enables confidence in a variety of trail environments.
• The Bravada 2 weighs approximately 500g (1.1 lbs). This is a relatively light weight for a hiking shoe, promoting agility and reducing fatigue.

Performance & Functionality

The Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s excels in providing a comfortable and agile hiking experience. The Merrell Quantum Grip outsole inspires confidence across diverse terrain.

However, the cushioning is somewhat limited for long-distance hikes. The breathability could also be improved for warmer conditions. The shoe performs best on moderate trails where agility and grip are prioritized over maximum cushioning.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bravada 2 features a sleek, modern design that blends hiking functionality with a casual aesthetic. The knit upper conforms well to the foot.

However, the lack of a traditional tongue can make it slightly challenging to get a secure lockdown for some foot shapes. The shoe is generally user-friendly, requiring minimal break-in period.

Durability & Maintenance

The materials used in the Bravada 2 appear to be durable. They can withstand moderate wear and tear.

Maintenance is straightforward. The shoe can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s comes with a removable EVA foam footbed. This allows for the use of aftermarket insoles for customized arch support or cushioning.

The shoe is compatible with most standard hiking socks. There are no specific customization options offered by Merrell for this model.

Pros and Cons of Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s

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Who Should Buy Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s?

The Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s are perfect for casual hikers. It is ideal for walkers seeking a versatile and comfortable shoe for moderate trails. It’s also well-suited for individuals who value sustainable products.

Individuals planning long-distance hikes or those requiring maximum cushioning and ankle support should consider other options. The Bravada 2 might not be supportive enough for them. A pair of quality hiking socks designed for moisture-wicking and blister prevention is a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s

The Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s deliver on their promise of a trail-ready hiking sneaker. They offer a comfortable, agile, and stylish option for moderate hikes and everyday wear.

At the sale price of $46.53, the value proposition is excellent. Even at the original MSRP of $109.95, the shoe offers a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and sustainability. I would recommend the Merrell Bravada 2 Hiking Shoes – Women’s to anyone seeking a versatile and eco-conscious hiking shoe. Grab a pair and hit the trails!