User Review: Merrell Chameleon Ventilator Mid

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

Reviewed August 16, 2006 by TropX

Rating: rated 5 of 5 stars
Materials: Leather/mesh
Use: Just about everything
Break-in Period: None
Weight: 215 lbs.
Price Paid: $100

This is some of the best footwear I've ever owned. Break-in time was nil; they fit great right out of the box. Lot of room in the toebox, even for my extra-wide (2E to 4E, depending on the shoe) foot. I've worn them in every condition imaginable, from 90-degree desert hikes to wet alpine slogs, rough scree to sandy beaches, and they've held up beautifully. I've read of complaints regarding durability, but mine seem bulletproof.

These shoes vent very well. This turned out to be a plus during rainy periods in the Rockies (I didn't have waterproof boots to bring) since it helped them dry quickly. I normally wear wool hiking socks with them, even in hot weather, and my feet stay comfy. They even work well as backpacking boots. I've carried over 30 pounds for several days and was impressed with their support. Best of all, I've never EVER had a blister while wearing them--hot spots, yes, but that's it. Traction is excellent. The sole looks weird but gets the job done. The lugs on mine have worn down quite a bit from use, but still seem to have plenty of grip.

My Chameleons are the older style (not the ones with the circle-shaped vents, so I don't know if these comments apply to the newer ones, but unless they made radical changes I don't see why not. I bought a second pair on clearance and squirrelled them away for the day my first pair finally wears out. It may be a while.

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