The Merrell Nova is designed as a trail runner, and it works well for this purpose. The features that make it so great for hiking also weigh in its favor as a trail runner.

I appreciated the lightweight design, overall flexibility, cushioning pods in the heel and forefoot, and excellent traction that this model provides. I found that I was able to summit a mountain faster than usual in this model, running partway and hiking the rest. There are a few shoes that would allow me to do this. Breathable upper Merrell is owned by Wolverine Worldwide and in its latest annual Corporate Responsibility report (2022), Merrell is mentioned a lot in its work on diversity, equity, and inclusion. But there is little detail regarding sustainable materials or emissions reductions. For example, Merrell has pledged all its products will ‘contain’ organic, recycled, or renewable materials by 2025 but doesn’t specify what ‘contain’ means. Overall, the Merrell Moab Adventure Luna Lace looks and feels ready for adventure. The Merrell Nova fits just right It includes a few reflective strips for visibility in low-light conditions. The padding inside the heel is soft and comfortable, keeping the heels blister-free.On the terrain it prefers, the Nova 3 feels agile. We liked the confidence the toe protection gave us too. Sustainability The outsole is made of durable rubber and features 5mm lugs that provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces. The M Select GRIP technology enhances the shoe's grip and ensures you stay stable on any terrain. The shoe includes a durable toe bumper for protection as well. I can attest that, without the bumper, I would have probably experienced a toe stub on at least one of my hikes or runs. Reflective strips on the Nova

The heel cup on the Merrell Nova is rigid yet padded to keep my feet free from unwanted motion inside the shoe. It gets the job done well so that I could make it to the mountaintop in record time! The Merrell Nova is a rugged-looking shoeI didn’t feel like my heel was loose in the shoe, which is a critical factor in blister prevention. The Merrell Nova is a versatile and comfortable hiking shoe that's perfect for any trail. With a combination of durability, support, and breathability, this shoe is designed to keep your feet comfortable and protected during long hikes.