Merrell Men's Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof Shoes (Style D9FW)

Our review of the Merrell Men's Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof Shoes finds them best suited for hikers and outdoor walkers who want a lightweight, comfortable boot that still offers trail-ready protection. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a waterproof membrane and a light EVA midsole that keeps feet dry on damp ground while maintaining all-day comfort and stability; reviewers repeatedly praised the fit and comfort, noting they accommodate thicker socks and work well through wet conditions.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: Seals out water while allowing moisture to escape so feet stay drier during wet hikes.
• Synthetic leather and mesh upper: Provides abrasion-resistant coverage with breathable panels to reduce overheating on long walks.
• Protective heel and toe cap: Synthetic reinforcements guard against scrapes and rocks on technical trail sections.
• 50% recycled EVA footbed: A removable foam footbed adds cushioning and can be swapped for custom orthotics.
• Lightweight EVA midsole: Delivers stable shock absorption and a low weight that keeps fatigue down on longer outings.
• Sticky trail outsole: Offers confident traction on varied outdoor surfaces for better grip on wet or loose terrain.

Who It's For

These shoes are ideal for men who hike local trails, do light backpacking, or need a dependable everyday outdoor shoe that balances comfort with short technical sections. They work well for people who favor a lighter boot rather than a heavy mountaineering style and for those who value a snug, true-to-size fit.

Shoppers who need heavy-duty winter boots, aggressive alpine traction, or a fully seam-sealed mountaineering boot should look elsewhere; similarly, those requiring insulated footwear for temperatures well below freezing will find these are optimized for moderate, wet conditions rather than extreme cold.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, with reviewers noting a good fit and the ability to wear thicker socks for warmth.
• Lightweight construction reduces fatigue on longer walks while still offering stability from the EVA midsole.
• Waterproof membrane and protective caps provide useful protection against wet trails and abrasion.
• Good value and stylish design that transitions from trail to town without looking bulky.

Cons

• Some users reported mixed results on long-term durability and waterproofing, so heavy, continuous use in very wet conditions may reveal limitations.
• Not insulated for extreme cold weather or deep snow conditions.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Merrell Men's Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof Shoes are a smart pick for hikers who want a lightweight, comfortable waterproof shoe that tackles damp trails and everyday outdoor use. They pair secure traction and built-in protection with a cushioned, recyclable footbed, delivering solid value for most recreational hikers who do not need heavy insulation or extreme-mountain performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these fully waterproof?
The shoes use a waterproof membrane that keeps out water in wet conditions, though some users reported mixed long-term waterproofing under heavy, continuous exposure.

Can I wear thicker socks with these?
Yes; reviewers noted the fit accommodates thicker socks comfortably for added warmth on cooler days.

Is the footbed replaceable?
Yes, the 50% recycled EVA foam footbed is removable and can be replaced with custom insoles if desired.