Merrell Trail Chaser 2 Jr Hiking Shoe - Kid-Friendly Traction

In this review of the Merrell Trail Chaser 2 Jr Hiking Shoe, the bottom line is simple: it is a practical, easy-on trail shoe for active kids who need reliable traction and comfortable all-day wear. The reviewer found the shoe excels at playgrounds, short hikes and everyday outdoor play thanks to a grippy non-marking outsole and a cushioned EVA footbed. While fit and long-term durability drew mixed reports from buyers, the combination of a suede and mesh upper with a hook and loop closure makes it a convenient, comfortable choice for many families.

Key Features

• Non-marking rubber outsole M Select GRIP: delivers dependable traction on wet and dry surfaces so kids can run and climb with confidence.
• EVA removable footbed: provides lightweight cushioning and can be taken out to fit orthotics or to air out between wears.
• Hook and loop closure: offers a precise and secure fit while making the shoe quick and easy for children to put on and take off independently.
• Suede and mesh upper: balances durability and breathability to help feet stay comfortable during long play sessions.
• Designed for all-day comfort: construction and materials focus on everyday wearability for trails, playgrounds and casual outdoor use.

Who It's For

The Trail Chaser 2 Jr is best for elementary-age kids who spend lots of time outdoors and need a shoe that is easy to handle, offers solid grip, and feels comfortable across a day of activity. Parents who value a shoe that children can put on by themselves and that performs on varied surfaces will appreciate this model.

Families seeking heavy-duty mountaineering footwear or a very narrow-performance fit should look elsewhere; some customers reported mixed durability and fit results, so buyers who require a very precise width or extreme longevity might prefer a different, more specialized kid's hiking boot.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good traction from the M Select GRIP outsole for confident running and light hiking.
• Comfortable EVA footbed that supports long walks and playground time.
• Easy hook and loop closure makes dressing independent for many children.
• Breathable suede and mesh upper keeps feet ventilated during extended wear.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed durability, with a few experiencing wear sooner than expected.
• Fit can be inconsistent-while many find the sizing true to expectation, a number of users describe a narrower fit.

Specifications

Brand	MERRELL
Model	Trail Chaser 2 Jr
Outsole	Non-marking rubber with M Select GRIP
Footbed	Removable EVA footbed
Closure	Hook and loop closure
Upper	Suede and mesh
Intended use	Trail, playground, everyday outdoor wear

Our Verdict

The Merrell Trail Chaser 2 Jr is a smart pick for parents who want a comfortable, easy-to-use shoe that performs well for casual hikes and playground play. It offers strong traction and convenient features at a reasonable value, though buyers should check fit carefully and expect variable long-term wear based on how ruggedly the shoe is used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes easy for kids to put on?
Yes, the hook and loop closure is designed for quick and independent on/off use.

Do they work for light hiking?
Yes, the M Select GRIP non-marking outsole gives reliable traction for light trails and uneven ground.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is mixed in customer feedback; many find them true to size while others report a narrower fit, so trying on or checking return options is recommended.