The Merrell MTL Line is Reinventing the Running Experience

Merrell isn’t letting the norm be the standard.

The brand, which rose in popularity in the last few years thanks to its clog offerings, is going back to its performance origins with its latest development within the Merrell Test Lab (MTL).

With its ethos being “Same is boring,” the MTL line is redefining outdoor performance footwear with the MQM and the Long Sky 2 — both of which are engineered for trail running.

Our Merrell Test Lab is the epicenter of all our product innovations as we utilize the latest scientific technology, equipment, and elite trail running athletes to prototype, rigorously test, refine and create products that continue to push the boundaries in the outdoor space.

This collection is just one of many innovations that have come out of our MTL as we continue to outpace the offerings of our competition.

Shaun Bohnsack, Vice President of Product Management at Merrell

The Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 features a lightweight design and a first-of-its-kind multi-dimensional system that expels 30% more water than the next best competitive shoe in quick dry testing, allowing athletes to quickly get back to optimal performance conditions, giving them an edge above their competition. Additionally, Merrell’s FloatPro Foam midsole helps reduce fatigue, while the Vibram® Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs delivers world-class traction and durability.

The Merrell MTL MQM (abbreviated for Moving Quickly over Mountains) was built with abrasive durability to handle the demands of the toughest of terrains. This ultimate scrambling shoe was inspired by an unmet need from Merrell’s most adaptable athletes looking for a hybrid shoe that could do it all — hiking, scrambling, and running. Two Vibram® rubber compounds (IdroGrip under toes and forefoot which is inspired by climbing rubber & MegaGrip® under the heel for the best traction on wet and dry surfaces) deliver next-level comfort and support.

We did global research with competitive runners and found that the vibrancy of nature is a key motivator for them. Running roads and treadmills was functional and monotonous, but the road and trail are different. We set out to provide a solution to give runners confidence in new terrain.

We hope ‘Same is Boring” inspires the next generation of runners to think about the trail as the next level of their competitive pursuits and educates them on how our product innovations can push their performance.

Nathan Buelow, Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Merrell

The Merrell MTL line is available now on Merrell.com and select retailers.

Keep it locked on Nice Kicks and the Sneaker Release Dates page for more information on upcoming releases.