Men's #Merrell SpeedArc Matis Review #ultralighthiking #ultralightbackpacking #outdoorgearreview

Model: Men’s Merrell SpeedArc Matis  Color:  7 options for non-WP men's  Price: $180 for non waterproof, $210 for the Gore-Tex version. Aesthetic: 8.0/10 Comfort: 9.5/10 Durability: 8.0/10 Innovation: 9.0/10 Value: 8.0/10 Average: 8.5 My time with the Merrell SpeedArc Matis was instructive. If you think you will stick with one brand and model of shoe over the next decade, prepare to be surprised. I expected to be a lifetime wearer of a high-top hiker from another manufacturer (Adidas Terrex 2 Hiker) but this effort from Merrell forced me to consider my life choices.  I tested the non-waterproof version in black. Sizing is true to size, both in length and width. The SpeedArc Matis will accommodate feet from narrow to moderately wide. If you have exceptionally wide feet,  look into another model. The aesthetic is reminiscent of a combination of Crocs, Balenciaga and the upstart, Spunge but moreso the latter. One polarizing aspect of the design is that the lug tread pattern falls outside of the area your baby toe occupies. This composition provides the wearer with greater grip on slippery surfaces however, this arrangement may waste energy from your stride. The look is amphibious.  Even though Gore-Tex represents the industry standard for waterproofing, I prefer the non-waterproof version because they dry faster after they are submerged in puddles and streams.  The SpeedArc Matis includes cushioning that is bouncy and shock absorbent  however, the addition of Vibram will add significant longevity to the shoe. Vibram soles can last 500 to 1500 miles which is impressive because a standard trail runner has a shelf life of 250-300 miles. Out of the box, the cushioning on the SpeedArc Matis feels like massaging gel, which eliminates the need for after-market insoles. The default Speed Lace system is convenient and eliminates the necessity of tying your shoes thus, the Arc Matis can be considered a slip-on.  The lifespan of the synthetic mesh material of the SpeedArc Matis will likely exceed that of woven yarn but less than cordura nylon. The toe region will be the first part of the shoe to fail.