User Review: Merrell Chameleon II Stretch

Merrell Chameleon II Stretch
Above: The current Chameleon II Stretch, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 3, 2007 by Enrique Sandoval

Rating:
Use: 8mi light hikes, light backpacking (20lb pack)
Break-in Period: 1-2 outings
Price Paid: $99.99

Excellent shoe. Second skin?...well pretty close. More like a very, very, comfortable anatomical glove for your feet. At first I really doubted the holding power of the elastic laces, but I have been very surprised. I have had no foot slip within the shoe that I can recall and attribute this to the anatomical fit last and secure compression of the design. I have done some pretty steep grades and these shoes have felt secure. The sole grip is outstanding even in wet conditions.

The cushioning is good enough for jogging trails although if looking for a racing shoe these are heavier than performance shoes like Salomon and the like, but much sturdier. They are low cut, so aggressive, loose stony ground (about baseball or softball sized stones), may require something with more ankle support but overall, they easily earn 5 stars of 5. This shoe concept will definitely be on my repeat buy list as long as they are produced.

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