Merrell Men's Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Our review of the Merrell Men's Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe finds it best suited for hikers who want a lightweight, supportive trail shoe with reliable grip. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a cushioned EVA midsole and a sticky rubber outsole that delivers stable comfort on mixed terrain, making it a solid choice for day hikes, approach trails and light backpacking where nimble movement matters.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: seals out surface water while allowing moisture vapor to escape so feet stay drier during variable conditions.
• Synthetic leather and mesh upper: balances abrasion resistance and breathability to hold up on rocky approaches without feeling overly stiff.
• Protective heel and toe caps: guard against trail debris and scuffs, extending the shoe's usable life in rugged terrain.
• EVA foam midsole: provides lightweight cushioning and stability for long miles without adding excessive weight.
• Merrell sticky rubber outsole: offers durable traction that grips when and where you need it on loose or damp surfaces.

Who It's For

The Speed Strike 2 Mid is aimed at hikers who prioritize comfort and traction in a mid-cut package - day hikers, overnight trekkers and anyone who wants arch support and a secure fit while wearing thicker socks. Its lighter weight and supportive midsole make it particularly appealing for users who move quickly on trail or carry moderate loads.

Those who need a fully bombproof mountaineering boot, a heavy winter boot for deep snow, or guaranteed long-term waterproofing under every condition should look elsewhere; customer feedback shows mixed experiences with waterproofing under prolonged immersion, so exceptionally wet environments may require a dedicated rubber boot.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable fit with notable arch support and room for thicker socks.
• Lightweight EVA midsole delivers stability without excess bulk.
• Sticky rubber outsole provides confident traction on varied trail surfaces.
• Durable synthetic uppers and protective caps resist abrasion on rocky routes.

Cons

• Waterproofing is solid for many situations but some users reported feet getting wet in prolonged wet conditions.
• Not intended as a heavy winter or technical mountaineering boot.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Speed Strike 2 Mid is a smart pick for hikers who want a lightweight, comfortable mid-cut shoe with strong traction and reliable support for day hikes and short multi-day trips. It offers good value when you need nimble performance and protective uppers, though those expecting absolute waterproof perfection in prolonged wet conditions should manage expectations or choose a specialized waterproof boot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes true to size?
The shoes generally fit true to size with room for thicker socks; customers report good overall fit and arch support.

Can these be used for backpacking?
Yes for light to moderate backpacking and fastpacking; the EVA midsole provides stability but they are not a heavy-load mountaineering boot.

How waterproof are they?
The waterproof membrane helps keep out surface water and allows breathability, but some users experienced wet feet in prolonged or fully submerged conditions.