Merrell Nova 3 Review: A Trail Shoe for All Terrains

Posted On July 6, 2023

The Merrell Nova 3 – the latest innovation from Merrell – proved itself to be the ultimate trail companion during my recent hiking adventure on the trails of Mt. Parawagan in Rodriguez, Rizal. This shoe helped me to explore and appreciate the natural wonders of the great outdoors, without any hesitation or discomfort.

Here’s my personal take on these trail running shoes.

First Impressions and Unmatched Comfort

As soon as I slipped my foot into the Nova 3, I was met with a comfortable embrace, reminiscent of a perfectly molded glove. What caught my attention was the shoe’s low-profile, simplistic design – a signature trait of Merrell – that marries functionality with sophistication. It’s a shoe that easily transitioned from the rocky trails to casual wear.

One aspect I truly appreciated was the shoe’s amplified comfort compared to its earlier iterations. The Nova 3 featured a Kinetic Fit™ BASE removable contoured insole, which provided adaptive, flexible support. Additionally, the breathable mesh lining prevented any undue moisture build-up, keeping my feet arid and cozy. Even as the hike grew long and strenuous, my feet were nestled comfortably within the shoe’s interior, which was further bolstered by a padded tongue and collar.

For those like me, who prefer a wider shoe, the Nova 3 was a blessing. The forefoot section was slightly snug when I first tried them on, but the shoe’s structure eased up after the initial break-in period, accommodating my wider feet without any resistance. This perfect blend of snugness and freedom of movement greatly added to my overall hiking experience.

Feather-Light and Perfect Fit

A truly striking feature of the Nova 3 was it’s impressive lightweight. Tipping the scale at only 295 grams per half pair, these shoes made it feel as if I was gliding over the trails. Despite being light, they boasted substantial support and cushioning, eliminating the stereotype of associating lightness with flimsiness. This had a considerable impact on my endurance during long hikes, minimizing my fatigue and maximizing my enjoyment.

The shoe’s size was a perfect match for my foot size. The lacing system, made from 100% recycled material, facilitated an easily adjustable fit that didn’t compromise the shoe’s stability. After the initial break-in period, the shoe adjusted to my foot’s shape, creating a personalized, supportive enclosure.

Performance on Varied Terrains

The trails of Mt. Parawagan offered a diverse terrain of muddy tracks interspersed with gravel and small rocks. Yet, the Nova 3 handled these varying conditions admirably. Thanks to the Vibram TC5+ outsole and its 4mm lugs, I was able to maintain a steady grip on both wet and dry surfaces. The forefoot rock plate augmented the shoe’s grip, making it a reliable choice for varied hiking trails. Even on the rockiest paths, I felt surefooted and secure.

Durability and Support

One of my primary concerns when purchasing new hiking shoes is their durability. However, the Nova 3’s upper mesh demonstrated robust resistance to tears, while a protective toe cap shielded my feet against rough surfaces. I was also impressed by the ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole, known for its resilience against stress-cracking and UV radiation. After my adventure on Mt. Parawagan, the shoe showed no signs of significant wear, a testament to its durability.

The support provided by the Merrell Nova 3 was unparalleled. The super rebound compound midsole helped absorb shock, creating stability on rugged terrains. The shoe’s FloatPro Foam cushioning pads provided a plush landing and mitigated the risk of strain during extended wear, a feature that any trail runner will appreciate.

Weather Protection

When it came to weather protection, the Nova 3’s thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) upper offered a reliable shield against the elements, keeping my feet dry even in damp conditions. The breathable mesh lining ensured internal dryness by wicking away moisture, adding an extra layer of comfort to my hiking experience.

Value for Money

Despite its high-quality features, the Merrell Nova 3 provides excellent value for money. The shoe is a worthy investment for avid hikers or trail runners like myself. Its emphasis on using 100% recycled lace and webbing is commendable, demonstrating that a shoe can offer superior performance without compromising on environmental responsibility.

The Merrell Nova 3 is priced at PHP 5,895. It also has a Waterproof model that you can get for PHP 6,395. You can choose from four colorways- Black, Navy, Monument, and Olive. Check out this impressive trail running shoe at Merrell Philippines shop.

Pros

• Excellent support and shock absorption
• Lightweight design
• Comfortable with good ventilation
• Reliable weather protection
• Superior traction
• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• Initial tight fit in the forefoot area
• May require a break-in period

Summary

My experience with the Merrell Nova 3 was overwhelmingly positive. Apart from the initial tight fit in the forefoot area and the required break-in period, I found this shoe to be an impressive blend of comfort, durability, and performance. It’s a worthwhile addition to any hiker’s collection, and I look forward to many more adventures with the Nova 3 on my feet.