Merrell Men's Chameleon 8 Stretch Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Lightweight

In this review of the Merrell Men's Chameleon 8 Stretch Waterproof Hiking Shoe the bottom line is clear: this is a practical, lightweight hiking shoe built for wet, technical trails where traction and comfort matter more than heavy insulation. The shoe's standout feature is the waterproof M Select DRY BARRIER coupled with a waterproof nubuck leather and mesh upper that keeps feet dry while allowing breathability, making it a solid choice for day hikes and fastpacking in changeable conditions. Fit and gait feel secure due to a molded heel counter and the Kinetic Fit BASE insole.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: The M Select DRY BARRIER seals out water while letting moisture escape so feet stay dry without overheating on active outings.
• Upper construction: Waterproof nubuck leather and mesh provide abrasion resistance and breathability for longer miles on mixed terrain.
• Secure fit: An elastic cord and lock lacing system plus a TPU molded heel counter hold the foot in place for stable footing.
• Cushioning and support: Merrell Air Cushion in the heel and an EVA foam midsole absorb shock and promote a steady ride on uneven trails.
• Traction outsole: Vibram XS Trek Evo with 5mm lugs offers predictable grip on wet rock and dirt without excessive weight.
• Debris protection: A bellows tongue helps keep grit and small stones out of the shoe for better comfort on long miles.

Who It's For

The Chameleon 8 Stretch Waterproof is aimed at hikers who want a low-profile, nimble shoe for day hikes, light backpacking and trail approaches where waterproofing and traction are priorities. It suits people who value a responsive, less bulky shoe that still offers stability and heel shock absorption.

It is less well suited to winter mountaineering, deep snow or multi-day fully loaded backpacking where heavier, insulated boots or higher ankle support are preferable. Trail runners seeking maximum cushioning and speed might also prefer lighter running-specific models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective waterproofing with breathable membrane keeps feet dry on wet routes.
• Secure fit from the elastic cord lock and TPU heel counter reduces slippage on descents.
• Good underfoot balance from EVA midsole and Merrell Air Cushion for stable comfort.
• Reliable grip from Vibram XS Trek Evo outsole with 5mm lugs on varied surfaces.

Cons

• Lower cut and minimal insulation mean it is not ideal for cold, snowy conditions.
• Those wanting maximal ankle support or heavy load carrying may prefer a higher boot.

Specifications

Closure	Lace-up with elastic cord and lock
Upper	Waterproof nubuck leather and mesh
Waterproofing	M Select DRY BARRIER membrane
Midsole	EVA foam with Merrell Air Cushion in heel
Insole	Kinetic Fit BASE removable contoured insole
Outsole	Vibram XS Trek Evo, 5mm lug depth, rubber
Additional	Bellows tongue and TPU molded heel counter

Our Verdict

The Merrell Chameleon 8 Stretch Waterproof is a versatile, comfortable hiking shoe for wet-weather day hikes and light pack trips. Its waterproof membrane, secure fit features and Vibram outsole deliver dependable protection and traction without heavy bulk, making it good value for anyone who wants a durable, breathable trail shoe that can handle variable conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these fully waterproof?
The shoes use M Select DRY BARRIER and waterproof nubuck leather to keep water out while allowing internal moisture to escape.

Do they offer good traction on wet rock?
Yes, the Vibram XS Trek Evo outsole with 5mm lug depth provides predictable grip on wet rock and muddy trails.

Can they be used for backpacking?
They work for light backpacking and fastpacking, but those carrying heavy loads or needing ankle support should choose a higher boot.