![merrell mqm merrell mqm](https://image.peltzshoes.com/images/products/1_317637_ZM.jpg)
Taken together, the MQM isn’t an ultralight standout, but it’s undoubtedly light and easy to manage on the trail. 6.2 oz.) and Hoka One One Speedgoat 4 (1 lb. 5.5 oz.) or a pair of hiking-ready trail runners like the Altra Lone Peak 5 (1 lb.
![merrell mqm merrell mqm](https://www.bfgcdn.com/1500_1500_90/119-0408-0211/merrell-womens-mqm-flex-2-mid-gtx-walking-boots.jpg)
On the fast-and-light end of the spectrum, you can shave a bit of weight with Salomon’s X Raise (1 lb. Stacked up to the competition, the shoe undercuts Salomon's popular X Ultra 3 by about an ounce per shoe, but the Salomon gets you a jump in comfort, support, and traction. And the waterproof GTX version came in at 1 pound 8.5 ounces (again for a men’s size 9). On our scale, a men’s size 9 of the non-waterproof model weighed in at 1 pound 7.7 ounces, which is exactly the same as the first-generation (the listed weight is 1 lb. In the end, the MQM Flex 2 can’t match the outright comfort of alternatives like Salomon’s X Raise or X Ultra 3, Danner’s Trail 2650, or Merrell’s own Moab 2, but it’s sufficient for moderate trails and when hauling light loads. It doesn’t absorb impacts as well as a more cushioned design, which can lead to foot soreness as the miles add up. But like the original MQM Flex, we found that comfort degraded if we were carrying a heavy pack or if the terrain was particularly technical and rocky. In terms of best uses, the shoe lines up nicely for ambitious day hikes, short trail runs, and ultralight backpacking.
![merrell mqm merrell mqm](https://runnerslab.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Merrell_MQM_Flex_2.jpg)
And with a rock plate in the midsole, you get a dose of protection for traveling over rough trails when hauling an overnight load or running.
#Merrell mqm plus
On the plus side, the MQM feels a lot like a trail runner: it’s light, very flexible under the forefoot, and its low stack height keeps you close to the trail. The padding around the heel is pretty thin, and the cushioning underfoot is a far cry from the thick foam you get with their most popular design. Putting on the Merrell MQM Flex 2, it’s immediately clear this shoe is a completely different animal than their Moab 2 hiker. To see how it stacks up, see our article on the best hiking shoes. Below we break down our experiences with the MQM Flex 2. On one hand, the shoe is light and makes it easy to put on miles, but we experienced some concerning durability issues with the revamped outsole. We put the second-generation model to the test in the Washington’s Cascade Mountains and have come away with mixed feelings. Merrell’s offering in this category is their hybrid MQM Flex, which aims to combine a hiking shoe, trail runner, and moderate approach shoe into one. If you’re looking for a stunning shoe that’s perfect for Summer, with piece of mind that you’re feet will be comfortable for lengthy adventures then these are the shoes for you.The growing popularity of wearing trail running shoes for hiking has pushed the market towards lighter and nimbler designs. Perfect for blazing through the fells and mountains. So we often get sent trail running shoes for review and we can honestly say the Merrell MQM Flex 2.0 GTX are the ultimate companion for hikers and trail runners alike. The MQM Flex GTX combines all the best features of a trail running shoe and a hiking shoe into one fast, protective piece of footwear designed for outdoor adventurers and ‘Moving Quickly in the Mountains.’ Would we recommend? The Merrell MQM Flex 2.0 GTX hiking shoe is made for the trail, its both lightweight and comfortable for long distance running, featuring a waterproof mesh and GORETEX membrane for complete protection. The second iteration of the popular MQM has new Quantum Grip and Gore-Tex Invisible Fit to create a durable, agile and light shoe with all the protection you would expect from the leading outdoor footwear brand. We put both the Mens Merrell MQM Flex 2 GORE-TEX and the Womens MQM Flex 2 to the test on a trail run, with mixed terrain and in rough conditions that would truly put these hiking shoes through their paces. We were sent two pairs of the new Merrell trail runners to test out and capture imagery for Instagram, however having tested these bad boys out on varied terrain, we were so impressed by the quality and comfort of the shoe that we decided to share our review online too. Merrell’s new MQM Flex GTX 2.0, is the perfect shoe for you to enjoy in the outdoors this Summer. Merrell is an outdoor footwear brand which believes that nothing should get in the way of enjoying active outdoor activities.
![merrell mqm merrell mqm](https://www.bfgcdn.com/1500_1500_90/119-0408-0111/merrell-womens-mqm-flex-2-mid-gtx-wandelschoenen.jpg)
Step your game up with the new Merrell MQM Flex 2.0, made for the trail and for moving rapidly up fells and mountains.