Merrell Morphlite

As an asphalt runner, I often run on mixed trails where I find both asphalt and gravel and some unpaved sections. For this type of running I needed a shoe that would adapt well to all these surfaces, so I was very excited to find out that I could try the Merrell Morphlite, especially because I had heard so many good things about it.

The Morphlite came to me as a hybrid running shoe option, designed for both road and light trails. They promised just what I was looking for and, after testing them for several months, I can now tell you in detail what I thought of them.

Runner's profile of the Merrell Morphlite

The Merrell Morphlite is designed for runners looking for a versatile shoe capable of adapting to a variety of surfaces. They are ideal for those training over short to medium distances, although they can work well over longer distances for runners who do not require excessive cushioning.

These shoes perform on mixed terrain, including asphalt, gravel, dirt roads and light trails. Running paces can vary, but their lightweight design makes them particularly suitable for runners looking for speed and agility. They are also a good choice for runners with a light to medium build who don't need extra strong support.

In my case, I used the Morphlite on a variety of terrains, from gravel paths and dirt roads to light trails. While they performed better on more even surfaces, I was pleasantly surprised by their performance in varying conditions. For my needs and type of trails, the Merrell Morphlite proved to be the right choice, providing versatility and comfort.

Merrell Morphlite Features and Technologies

The Merrell Morphlite incorporates several technologies and features that make them stand out.

• FloatPro midsole: Lightweight foam that offers moderate cushioning and responsiveness. This material is known for its durability and its ability to provide a lightweight feel underfoot. In addition, the 6.5 mm drop and 26.5 - 20mm height balance cushioning and stability well.
• The jacquard mesh upper is not only comfortable, but also sustainable, as Merrell has used recycled materials in its construction. The Morphlite also feature a fully integrated tongue and a wide platform design that increases stability on flat surfaces.
• The Cleansport NXT treatment integrated into the Merrell Morphlite offers natural odor control. This system uses probiotic technology that naturally neutralizes odor-causing bacteria, keeping shoes fresh and free of unwanted odors throughout wear. Ideal for maintaining hygiene and comfort.

What I liked best about the Merrell Morphlite

The first thing that struck me about the Merrell Morphlite was their weight. At only 171 grams in my women's size 38, these shoes are incredibly lightweight. This lightness brings a sense of freedom when running, almost as if you are wearing nothing on your feet. If you value speed and agility in your workouts, this detail is a big plus.

Another thing I liked the most is the jacquard mesh upper. This material allows the foot to breathe, which is essential to maintain comfort. In addition, Merrell talks about an "internal bootie" that offers support, and although you can't see that bootie-like shape, I must say that the fit is comfortable and secure.

One of the key features of the Merrell Morphlite is its FloatPro midsole, which provides a blend of cushioning and responsiveness. And while it's not as responsive as that of other shoes, the lightness facilitates a fast pace and smooth transition.

Another feature is the outsole design with 3mm lugs for trails and 2mm lugs for asphalt or all types of terrain. Although they are not designed for overly technical terrain, they offer sufficient traction on dirt and gravel roads.

Possible upgrades to the Merrell Morphlite

Although there are few improvements, I think one that Merrell could implement in the Morphlite is the durability of their midsole. After several miles, you notice the wear in the structure of the material, although the comfort underfoot is maintained. And the lugs on the outsole, while functional on mixed terrain, I don't recommend using them on rocky or more extreme surfaces, as they wear out and this can affect the traction of the shoe on gravel.

Possible rivals for the Merrell Morphlite

Final Conclusion

In summary, the Merrell Morphlite is an excellent choice for runners looking for a lightweight, versatile shoe for short to medium distances on mixed terrain. Their light weight and affordable price of 110€ make them very attractive, especially for those looking for a hybrid shoe that can handle both asphalt and gravel.

Although they could improve on the durability of the outsole, the Morphlite offer great value for money. Personally, I really enjoyed the lightweight and smooth transition they provide. If you're a runner looking for a reliable shoe for varied terrain workouts and don't need excessive cushioning for long distances, I would definitely recommend giving the Merrell Morphlite a try.