Merrell Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Stable Trail

In this review of the Merrell Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe, the bottom line is simple: this is a lightweight, supportive hybrid hiking shoe built for day hikes and mixed-terrain trails where stability and comfort matter most. The shoe's biggest reason to buy is its combination of a lightweight EVA foam midsole with a sticky rubber outsole, which delivers confident traction and cushioning without the bulk of a heavy boot. The waterproof membrane aims to keep feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, making these shoes suitable for damp conditions and varied weather on short to medium outings.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: seals out surface water while letting internal moisture escape so feet stay drier during wet conditions and exertion.
• Synthetic leather and mesh upper: balances abrasion resistance with breathability to perform on rough trails without feeling clunky.
• Protective heel and toe caps: synthetic reinforcement shields high-wear areas from rocks and brush to extend the shoe's usable life.
• Lightweight EVA midsole: provides stable underfoot cushioning that reduces fatigue on long miles while keeping overall weight low.
• Merrell sticky rubber outsole: durable traction grips on loose dirt and wet surfaces for confident footing where it is most needed.

Who It's For

These shoes suit hikers who want a nimble, supportive mid-height shoe for day hikes, trail approaches, and variable terrain. They work well for walkers who value arch support and a lighter feel than traditional heavy hiking boots, and for those who wear thicker socks in cool weather thanks to a forgiving fit.

Shoppers who need fully submersible or long-term wet-weather boots for extended backpacking trips should look elsewhere; while the waterproof membrane helps in rain and puddles, some users report mixed results in prolonged saturation or deep water. Also, those seeking heavy ankle support for technical mountaineering will prefer a taller, stiffer boot.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable on long walks with noticeable arch support and lightweight cushioning.
• Good grip from the sticky rubber outsole improves confidence on wet or loose terrain.
• Durable upper with synthetic heel and toe caps resists abrasion in rugged conditions.

Cons

• Waterproof performance is mixed for some customers, so deep or prolonged wet exposure may lead to wet feet.
• Not as supportive as a full leather, high-cut backpacking boot for heavy-load, multi-day treks.

Specifications

Brand	Merrell
Model	Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof
Upper	Waterproof synthetic leather and mesh
Midsole	Lightweight EVA foam for stability and comfort
Outsole	Merrell sticky rubber outsole with durable traction
Protection	Synthetic heel and toe cap for abrasion resistance
Waterproofing	Waterproof membrane that lets moisture escape

Our Verdict

The Merrell Speed Strike 2 Mid Waterproof is a solid choice for day hikers and anyone who prioritizes lightweight comfort, dependable traction, and decent water resistance for short outings. It represents good value for people who want a nimble trail shoe with protective overlays and supportive cushioning, though those needing full waterproof reliability in deep water or heavy-duty mountaineering should consider a different, more robust boot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes fully waterproof?
The shoes have a waterproof membrane that repels surface water and breathes, but some users report mixed results in prolonged immersion or very wet conditions.

Do they provide good arch support?
Yes, customers commonly note solid arch support and comfortable cushioning from the EVA midsole for long walks and hikes.

Are they suitable for technical backpacking?
They are best for day hikes and light multi-day use; those carrying heavy loads or needing stiff ankle support should choose a dedicated backpacking boot.