Merrell Nova 2 GTX

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Merrell Nova 2
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Merrell Nova 2 GTX: Review

β€œA versatile trail running shoe with superior cushioning, protection, and grip.”

Overview


The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is a winter-optimized version of the successful Merrell Nova 2, part of the Merrell Nova GTX family. This trail running shoe is designed for distances ranging from a 10K to a marathon in the mountains, offering a perfect balance between cushioning, protection, and grip. The shoe combines the comfort of a running shoe with the resistance of mountain boots, making it a versatile option for runners seeking a comfortable model for their outdoor adventures. The Nova 2 GTX features a lightweight EVA midsole for a stable and comfortable ride, a breathable engineered mesh upper, and a GORE-TEX membrane for superior protection against adverse weather conditions. The Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole provides excellent traction and grip on uneven and slippery surfaces.

According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 30% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Merrell Nova 2 GTX


The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is a solid choice for mountain runners seeking a shoe that can handle a variety of distances and terrains. Its lightweight EVA midsole provides excellent shock absorption, while the breathable mesh upper and GORE-TEX membrane offer superior protection against the elements. The Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole ensures reliable traction on uneven and slippery surfaces. However, the shoe may not be the best option for runners who prefer a more responsive ride. Overall, the Merrell Nova 2 GTX offers good value for money, providing a comfortable and durable option for trail running.

Updates to Merrell Nova 2 GTX


The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is a winter-optimized version of the Merrell Nova 2. It features a GORE-TEX membrane for superior protection against adverse weather conditions, making it a more suitable choice for running in wet or cold conditions. The shoe also features a Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole for improved traction on uneven and slippery surfaces.

Merrell Nova 2 GTX: Base model


The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is a special version of the MerrellNova 2. It features a GORE-TEX membrane for superior protection against adverse weather conditions and a Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole for improved traction on uneven and slippery surfaces.

Comparable Shoes


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Compared to the Merrell Nova 2, the Merrell Nova 2 GTX offers superior protection against adverse weather conditions thanks to its GORE-TEX membrane. However, the Nova 2 may offer a more responsive ride.

Special versions of Merrell Nova 2 GTX


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The Merrell Nova 2 Mid GTX is a mid-cut version of the Merrell Nova 2 GTX. It offers the same features as the Nova 2 GTX, including the GORE-TEX membrane and Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole, but provides additional ankle support and protection.

5 Merrell Nova 2 GTX Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Excellent protection against wet conditions thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane.
Reliable traction on uneven and slippery surfaces due to the Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole.
Comfortable ride provided by the lightweight EVA midsole and removable EVA foam insole.

2 Cons

May not offer the level of responsiveness that some runners seek.
Medium toe box may be a bit restrictive for runners with wide feet.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Merrell Nova 2 GTX is made from a lightweight, breathable engineered mesh. It also features a GORE-TEX membrane for superior protection against adverse weather conditions. This makes the shoe a great choice for runners who often find themselves running in wet or cold conditions.

Midsole

The midsole of the Merrell Nova 2 GTX is made from lightweight EVA, providing a stable and comfortable ride. This material ensures superior shock absorption without sacrificing the lightness that runners need. The presence of a removable EVA foam insole further enhances the comfort of the shoe.

Outsole

The outsole of the Merrell Nova 2 GTX is made from Vibram TC5+ rubber. This material provides excellent traction and grip on uneven and slippery surfaces, making the shoe a reliable choice for trail running.

Size/fit

The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is designed with a medium toe box, providing ample space for the toes to spread and move naturally. This makes the shoe a good option for runners with medium-width feet.

Comfort

With its lightweight EVA midsole and removable EVA foam insole, the Merrell Nova 2 GTX offers a comfortable ride. The breathable mesh upper and GORE-TEX membrane also contribute to the overall comfort of the shoe by keeping the feet dry and cool.

Who should buy the Merrell Nova 2 GTX?


The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is ideal for trail runners who often run in wet or cold conditions. Its GORE-TEX membrane provides superior protection against the elements, while the Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole ensures reliable traction on uneven and slippery surfaces. The shoe's lightweight EVA midsole and removable EVA foam insole offer a comfortable ride, making it a good choice for long-distance runs.

Who should not buy the Merrell Nova 2 GTX?


The Merrell Nova 2 GTX may not be the best option for runners who prefer a more responsive ride. While its EVA midsole provides excellent shock absorption, it may not offer the level of responsiveness that some runners seek. Additionally, runners with wide feet may find the medium toe box of the shoe a bit restrictive.

Merrell Nova 2 GTX: What's it good for?


The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is good for trail running in wet or cold conditions. Its GORE-TEX membrane provides superior protection against the elements, while the Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole ensures reliable traction on uneven and slippery surfaces. The shoe's lightweight EVA midsole and removable EVA foam insole offer a comfortable ride, making it a good choice for long-distance runs.

3 Merrell Nova 2 GTX FAQs


Is the Merrell Nova 2 GTX waterproof?

Yes, the Merrell Nova 2 GTX is waterproof. It features a GORE-TEX membrane that provides superior protection against wet conditions.

What type of terrain is the Merrell Nova 2 GTX suitable for?

The Merrell Nova 2 GTX is suitable for trail running. Its Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole provides excellent traction on uneven and slippery surfaces.

Is the Merrell Nova 2 GTX vegan-friendly?

Yes, the Merrell Nova 2 GTX is vegan-friendly. Its upper is made from a lightweight, breathable engineered mesh.

Merrell Nova 2 GTX alternatives

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Merrell Nova 2 GTX
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Merrell Nova 2 GTX
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Weight
Weight
281 g
M: 275 g
W: 249 g
M: 326 g
W: 289 g
420 g
M: 301 g
W: 298 g
M: 275 g
W: 241 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
22 mm
25 mm
23 mm
28 mm
33 mm
29 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
4 mm
8 mm
6 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
30 mm
25 mm
27 mm
32 mm
39 mm
33 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Snow/iceTrail
MudSnow/iceTrailMudSnow/iceTrailSnow/iceTrailMudSnow/iceTrailSnow/iceTrail
Brand
Brand
Merrell
AltraSauconyadidasMerrellHoka
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
BreathableLow dropZero dropLow dropLow dropMaximalistComfortableMaximalistBreathableLow dropMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Rock plate
Rock plate
Carbon fiber plate
Carbon fiber plate
High top
High top
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
Gore-Tex
Gore-Texadidas Lightstrike
Vibram
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Waterproof
WaterproofWater repellent
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹
SustainableSustainable
0

Merrell Nova 2 GTX characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+1920)
TerrainSnow/ice (+66)Trail (+506)
BrandMerrell (+33)
Support TypeNeutral (+1503)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1483)
Strike TypeFore/Midfoot strike (+1062)Heel strike (+1141)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1430)
FitMedium toe box (+830)
FeaturesBreathable (+964)Rock plate (+117)
MaterialsMesh (+859)
TechsGore-Tex (+102)
WaterproofingsWaterproof (+116)
Environmental CharacteristicsVegan β“‹ (+224)
ColorwaysBlack, Black / Incense, Charcoal, Grey / Black, Lichen
Specificationsvs Average
Model
2 GTX
Released
May 2021
Measurements
Weight
281 g
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
Heel
30 mm
Forefoot
22 mm

Evolution of the Merrell Nova GTX product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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πŸ“Š Stats | Powered by geerly.com πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%