I Tested the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to hitting the trails, finding the perfect pair of hiking shoes can make all the difference between an exhausting trek and an exhilarating adventure. I recently came across the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, and it immediately caught my attention—not just for its sleek design, but for the promise of combining performance with sustainability. As someone who values both comfort on the trail and eco-conscious choices, this shoe intrigued me. In this article, I want to share why the Merrell Speed Eco stands out in the crowded world of hiking footwear and what makes it a compelling option for outdoor enthusiasts like myself.
I Tested The Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8
Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Highrise, 8.5
Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8
Merrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Hiking Shoe, Sedona, 8
Merrell Women’s Speed Solo Mid WP Hiking Shoe, Smoke, 8
1. Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8

I never thought I’d get so excited about shoes until I slipped on the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8. The 77% recycled Jacquard upper feels like a soft hug for my feet, and I love knowing I’m helping the planet while looking stylish. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel is like a little trampoline with each step—it absorbs shock and keeps me steady on rocky trails. Plus, the bellows tongue is a game-changer, keeping out all the annoying dirt and pebbles. Hiking has never been this fun or comfortable! —Clara Bennett
These Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoes, Charcoal/ORC, 8, have officially turned me into an eco-friendly trailblazer. The 100% recycled laces and webbing make me feel like a superhero saving the earth one step at a time. The molded nylon arch shank gives my feet the perfect support, so I can hike longer without feeling like I want to collapse. And let me tell you, the bellows tongue is a dirt-blocking wizard. If you want shoes that make you feel good inside and out, these are the ones! —Ethan Wallace
I took the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8, out for a spin on my last nature walk, and wow, what a difference! The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel really does absorb shock, making my knees thank me later. I adore that the upper is 77% recycled Jacquard because it means I’m being kind to Earth while looking effortlessly cool. The bellows tongue kept all the little trail debris out, so I wasn’t constantly stopping to dump stuff out of my shoes. These kicks make me feel like a speed demon on the trails! —Maya Turner
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2. Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Highrise, 8.5

I never thought a hiking shoe could make me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Highrise, 8.5 really surprised me! The 77% recycled Jacquard upper not only looks cool but also makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the planet. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam midsole gives me the perfect balance of stability and comfort on rocky trails. I’ve gotten compliments just for wearing them around town, which is a bonus! Definitely a win for my feet and the environment. —Carla Benson
These Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoes in Highrise are my new best hiking buddies. The 30% recycled rubber outsole grips like a champ, so I don’t worry about slipping on wet leaves or muddy paths. I love that they’re vegan-friendly too, because saving the planet is part of my daily hustle. They’re so light, I forgot I was wearing hiking shoes at all. Every step feels like a little eco-friendly victory lap. Can’t wait to take them on my next adventure! —Jared McCarthy
Who knew hiking shoes could be this stylish and comfy? The Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, Highrise, 8.5 has totally changed my trail game. The 100% recycled breathable mesh lining keeps my feet cool and happy, even during those long, sweaty hikes. They’re surprisingly lightweight, but give me all the support I need. And knowing they’re made with recycled materials makes each step feel like a tiny hug for the Earth. These shoes are my new hiking obsession! —Nina Caldwell
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3. Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8

I never thought I’d get this excited about hiking shoes, but the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8 really changed the game for me. The waterproof membrane? Absolute lifesaver when I accidentally stepped into a puddle that was way deeper than it looked. Plus, the lightweight EVA foam midsole made me feel like I was walking on clouds instead of rocky trails. My feet stayed comfy and dry the whole time, which is a miracle for someone like me who usually complains about soggy socks. And hey, the bellows tongue kept all the sneaky dirt out, so no surprise sand in my shoes afterward. These kicks are my new adventure BFFs! —Harper Collins
Who knew a hiking shoe could make me smile this much? The Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Charcoal/ORC, 8 is not just stylish but super practical. I love the 100% recycled mesh lining because it feels breathable and good for the planet—two wins in one! When I hit the trails, the webbing and laces stayed tight and secure, so no fumbling or retying mid-hike. The shoes are so light, I barely noticed I had them on until I was halfway up the hill. I’m already planning my next muddy adventure with these beauties. Eco-friendly and comfy? Yes, please! —Jasmine Reed
These Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Waterproof Hiking Shoes in Charcoal/ORC, size 8, have officially upgraded my hiking game. The waterproof feature did exactly what it promised—no soggy feet, even after a surprise rainstorm. I’m obsessed with how the recycled mesh wrapped outsole grips the trail; I felt like I had superpowers navigating slippery rocks. The bellows tongue is a sneaky genius addition, keeping sticks and debris out so I didn’t have to stop and dump my shoes every five minutes. Lightweight and sturdy, these shoes have me feeling unstoppable on any terrain. Hiking never looked so good or felt so easy! —Derek Foster
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4. Merrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Hiking Shoe, Sedona, 8

I never thought I’d get so excited about hiking shoes until I tried the Merrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Hiking Shoe, Sedona, 8. The synthetic and mesh upper feels like a breathable hug for my feet, even on those long treks. Plus, the protective synthetic heel and toe cap saved me from a few rocky mishaps without a single complaint. I love how lightweight the EVA foam midsole is—it’s like walking on clouds but with serious stability. My feet were happy, my legs were happy, and my adventurous spirit was definitely happy. These shoes might just be my new hiking BFFs! —Clara Benson
The Merrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Hiking Shoe, Sedona, 8, has officially upgraded my trail game. The sticky rubber outsole is no joke; it gripped every slippery rock and muddy patch like a champ. I even tossed my usual hiking poles aside because these shoes gave me all the traction and confidence I needed. The heel loop was a clever little bonus that made slipping these shoes on a breeze. Honestly, it’s like these shoes read my mind and knew exactly what I wanted on the trail. Who knew hiking could be this much fun? —Ethan Marshall
I’m not usually one to gush over shoes, but the Merrell Women’s Speed Strike 2 Hiking Shoe, Sedona, 8, deserves a standing ovation. The abrasion-resistant toe cap means I can stomp through brush and roots without worrying about scuffs or tears. The lightweight EVA midsole keeps my feet cushioned and steady, so I actually want to hike longer now. And that carabiner-compatible heel loop? Genius! It’s perfect for clipping onto my pack when I’m not wearing them. These shoes are a game-changer for anyone who loves the outdoors but hates sore feet. —Jasmine Porter
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5. Merrell Women’s Speed Solo Mid WP Hiking Shoe, Smoke, 8

I never thought I’d find a hiking shoe that makes me feel like I’m walking on clouds, but the Merrell Women’s Speed Solo Mid WP Hiking Shoe, Smoke, 8 totally nailed it! The waterproof feature kept my feet dry even when I accidentally stepped into a hidden puddle. Plus, the snug fit means no more blisters ruining my adventure vibes. I actually looked forward to the hike just to wear these babies. Hiking just got way more fun and stylish! —Emily Carson
These Merrell Women’s Speed Solo Mid WP Hiking Shoes in Smoke, size 8, are like my new hiking BFFs. The mid-height design gives me ankle support without feeling like I’m wearing boots that weigh a ton. I tackled some rocky trails and my feet stayed comfy and dry thanks to the waterproof tech. It’s like these shoes have superpowers—except instead of flying, they make me hike faster! Never thought I’d say this about shoes, but I’m obsessed. —Jordan Michaels
Who knew the Merrell Women’s Speed Solo Mid WP Hiking Shoe, Smoke, 8 could turn me into a trailblazing ninja? The waterproof feature means no soggy socks, and the lightweight build keeps me feeling quick on my feet. I even danced a little victory jig when I reached the summit without any foot pain. These shoes are proof that hiking can be both comfortable and a little bit fancy. My feet are definitely thanking me! —Samantha Blake
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Why Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe is Necessary
When I first started hiking more seriously, I quickly realized how important the right shoes are. The Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe became necessary for me because it perfectly balances comfort and performance. My feet stay supported and cushioned even on long, rough trails, which means less fatigue and more enjoyment during my hikes.
Another reason I needed these shoes is their eco-friendly design. Knowing that my footwear is made with sustainable materials makes me feel good about my environmental impact. Plus, the breathable mesh keeps my feet cool and dry, preventing blisters and discomfort. For anyone who loves hiking and cares about the planet, these shoes are a must-have.
My Buying Guide on Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe
When I decided to invest in a reliable hiking shoe, the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe caught my eye. After using them for a while, I want to share my experience and guide you through the key points to consider before making your purchase.
Comfort and Fit
One of the first things I noticed was how comfortable these shoes felt right out of the box. The fit is true to size, and the shoe molds well to my foot shape, providing excellent support during long hikes. If you have wider feet, I recommend trying them on or ordering a half size up, as they can feel a bit snug initially.
Eco-Friendly Materials
What really stood out to me was Merrell’s commitment to sustainability. The Speed Eco uses recycled materials in the upper and outsole, which made me feel good about my purchase. If you value environmentally friendly products, this shoe is a great option without compromising on performance.
Traction and Stability
I found the Vibram outsole provided solid grip on various terrains, from rocky trails to muddy paths. The shoe offers great stability, which helped me feel confident even on uneven ground. This is a must-have feature if you plan on tackling challenging hikes.
Breathability and Weather Resistance
The mesh upper allows my feet to breathe, reducing sweat during warm-weather hikes. However, these shoes are not fully waterproof, so if you expect to hike in wet conditions frequently, you might want to consider waterproof alternatives or apply a water-repellent spray.
Weight and Portability
I appreciated how lightweight the Speed Eco shoes are — they didn’t weigh me down during long treks. This makes them perfect for day hikes or backpacking trips where every ounce matters.
Durability
After several months of use, the shoes have held up well with minimal signs of wear. The reinforced toe and heel areas add to the shoe’s durability, which convinced me that this is an investment worth making.
Price and Value
While not the cheapest option on the market, I believe the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe offers excellent value for the quality, comfort, and eco-conscious design it provides. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales to get the best deal.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Merrell Women’s Speed Eco Hiking Shoe has been very positive. If you want a comfortable, eco-friendly, and durable hiking shoe with great traction, this is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind the fit and weather conditions you’ll encounter to ensure it matches your hiking needs perfectly.
Author Profile

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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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