Merrell morphlite 1

Learn more about the Merrell morphlite 1 male running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Merrell morphlite 1

Price

$239

Rating

High

Popularity

Moderate

The Merrell Morphlite 1 is a lightweight, breathable hiking shoe that offers a bit more versatility compared to more rugged models like the Moab series, making it ideal for casual trails and urban adventures.

Merrell
morphlite 1 - black-white

Anthony
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Summary

The Merrell Morphlite 1 is a lightweight, versatile running shoe designed to provide comfort and flexibility for trail runners. Positioned within Merrell's lineup of running shoes, the Morphlite 1 offers a balance between performance and durability, featuring breathable materials and a minimalist design that appeals to runners seeking a natural feel. Unlike Merrell's more rugged models with heavy-duty protection and support, the Morphlite 1 focuses on agility and responsiveness, making it ideal for those who prefer a less bulky option when navigating varied terrains.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(23.25mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(composite interlocking upper upper)

Weight

240g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

6.5mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(low density, 3mm lugs)

Suitability

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Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Merrell morphlite 1 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 20 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

midsole (3)
comfort (2)
responsiveness (2)
performance (1)
foam (1)
moderation (1)
support (1)
cushioning (1)
Pros
"The FloatPro Foam midsole offers excellent cushioning for long distances."
floatpro
cushioning
comfort
"The midsole offers a good balance between comfort and responsiveness for long distances."
cushioning
responsiveness
long distance
"The shoe offers great comfort through its midsole construction, which uses FloatPro Foam for cushioning."
FloatPro Foam
cushioning
impact absorption
"The shoe maintains a balance between responsiveness and impact absorption."
responsiveness
impact absorption
"The FloatPro foam provides a good mix of protection, durability, and responsiveness."
FloatPro
protection
durability
lightweight
responsive
"The moderate cushioning in the midsole strikes a good balance of comfort and responsiveness."
responsive
impact absorption
comfortable feel
"The cushioned soles support different pronation types, accommodating a wider audience."
cushioned
over-pronation
under-pronation
"The shoes have good cushion and flex, suitable for both road and trail running."
cushioned
flexible
"The Merrell Morphlite offers a great balance of comfort and responsiveness, making it suitable for various running surfaces."
moderate
responsive
comfortable
"It's equipped with FloatPro Foam, providing cushioning for long runs."
FloatPro Foam
cushioning
long distances
"The cushioning in the shoe is comfortable and provides a good ride."
cushioning
bounce
"The shoe maintains a good balance of responsiveness while cushioning for various terrains."
medium cushioning
responsiveness
"The shoe is equipped with a firmer foam that surprisingly enhances its responsiveness and snappiness."
FloatPro foam
snappy
firm
"The shoe's cushioning system is suitable for longer distances without causing discomfort."
long runs
comfort
"The shoe's cushioning absorbs impact well, providing comfort during runs."
heel cushioning
comfort
long distance
"The FloatPro Foam midsole provides a good energy return and comfort while running."
FloatPro Foam
springy
comfort
Cons
"The midsole provides minimal cushioning, impacting comfort during longer runs."
minimal padding
hard midsole
comfort issues
"The cushioning may not suffice for longer, more demanding runs."
cushioning
long runs
"The cushioning may not suit those looking for a high level of impact absorption."
cushioning
shock absorption
"Firmer foam may lack cushioning over longer distances."
cushioning
long distances
"The shoe may not provide enough cushioning for longer runs or distances over 10 miles."
cushioning
distance
firmness
"The cushioning of the shoe is basic and does not offer much shock absorption during runs."
cushioning
minimal
absorption
"There is a lack of advanced cushioning technology like a carbon plate which could enhance performance."
missing carbon plate
basic cushioning

weight (2)
upper (2)
breathability (1)
initial_fit (1)
fit (1)
ease (1)
feel (1)
flexibility (1)
Pros
"The upper of the shoe is designed to reduce water entry while maintaining breathability, ideal for trail running."
breathable
waterproof
trail
"The jacquard mesh upper contributes to the shoe's breathability and comfort."
jacquard mesh
comfort
breathable
"The shoe excels in comfort due to its soft and breathable upper, requiring no break-in period."
no break-in
soft upper
comfortable fit
"The shoe features a breathable and comfortable design, enhancing the overall running experience."
breathable
comfortable
lightweight
"The shoe's upper materials are highly breathable, keeping feet cool and comfortable during warmer runs."
breathable uppers
temperature control
"The breathability of the shoe enhances overall comfort during runs."
breathability
airiness
"The breathable mesh lining helps keep feet comfortable and odor-free."
odor-free
breathable
mesh lining
"The Merrell Morphlite shoes are ultra lightweight and breathable, making them comfortable for various terrains."
lightweight
breathable
"The shoe is lightweight, which enhances performance and comfort during runs."
lightweight
breathable
comfortable
"The shoes provide excellent out-of-the-box comfort, requiring no breaking in."
immediate comfort
no break-in
"The spacious toe box accommodates natural toe splay, enhancing comfort during long runs."
spacious
comfortable
"The shoe's Jacquard upper construction provides a snug and comfortable fit, enhancing stability during runs on light trails."
Jacquard upper
fit
stability
"The Morphlite offers a comfortable upper, accommodating foot swell during use."
comfort
flexibility
"The shoe provides high comfort for casual and relaxed runs, catering to recreational runners."
comfortable
easy
balance
"The shoe has a fresh and comfortable feel, perfect for versatile use."
fresh
comfortable
versatile
"It has a flexible sole design that enhances comfort and adaptability on varied surfaces."
flexible
adaptable
comfort
"The shoe offers good arch support, making it suitable for runners needing extra support during their runs."
support
plantar fasciitis
high arch
"The well-designed tongue features practical elements like a gusset that prevents debris entry and enhances the fit."
gusset
comfort
fit
"They are comfortable enough for casual, everyday use as well as running."
casual use
work
comfortable
Cons
"The shoe may not cater to those who prefer a lower drop for their running style."
drop height
running style
comfort
"The shoe's hard midsole can lead to discomfort over longer distances."
discomfort
long run
jarring sensation
"The shoes take a small amount of time to break in before they feel comfortable."
break-in period
initial comfort
"Rubbing can occur without socks due to the toe guard."
toe guard
socks
"Limited protection around the toe area is a concern."
reinforcement
protection
"The breathability of the shoe is below average due to its jacquard upper design."
breathability
upper material
ventilation
"While comfortable, the shoes may not offer enough support for extensive daily wear."
daily wear
support
"The soles feel slightly hard initially, which may be uncomfortable for some runners."
hard sole
initial discomfort
"The arch support is minimal, which might not provide enough help for runners needing extra support."
minimal support
low drop

material (2)
wear (2)
rubber (1)
outsole (1)
longevity (1)
long-lasting (1)
traction (1)
responsiveness (1)
Pros
"The outsole shows minimal wear after multiple runs on pavement, demonstrating good durability."
wear resistance
pavement
good longevity
"Its outsole design improves versatility on both road and trail, contributing to its performance across surfaces."
versatile
resilient
efficient
"Durability is a highlight due to the sticky rubber outsole, which provides good traction and holds up well over time."
traction
sticky rubber
long-lasting
"The shoes' durability is noteworthy, showing minimal wear even after extensive usage."
long-lasting
wear-resistant
"The Merrell Morphlite is notable for its durability, providing reliability over various terrains."
durability
value
"The shoe is durable and able to withstand wear over time, making it a great budget option."
durability
budget
"The Morphlite showcases impressive durability after extensive use."
minimal wear
cushion integrity
100 miles
Cons
"The outsole shows wear quickly when used on debris-filled trails."
outsole
midsole
"Durability issues are present, with both midsole and outsole wearing out faster than expected."
midsole
outsole
durability
"The rubber outsole's knobby lugs wear down too quickly for effective traction over time."
outsole
knobby lugs
traction
"The midsole loses its initial comfort and responsiveness too quickly, affecting long-term performance."
midsole
responsiveness
performance
"The shoe is not designed for rugged or technical conditions, which limits its versatility."
not rugged
light trails
"The outsole may wear out quickly when used on rougher surfaces."
wear
foam_exposure
"Overall durability is questioned due to the lightweight construction."
lightweight
wear
"The shoe has major durability concerns that can affect long-term use."
durability
longevity
construction
"The heel padding durability is poor, impacting comfort over time."
heel padding
comfort
durability
"There are some wrinkles in the foam cushioning after use."
cushioning
foam wrinkles
"The shoe does not have sufficient durability for rougher trail runs, which may affect lifespan."
limited durability
lightweight issues

weight (4)
transition (3)
lightweight (2)
smooth ride (2)
trail (2)
smoothness (1)
versatility (1)
fun (1)
Pros
"The shoe is lightweight, making it comfortable for running."
lightweight
comfortable
"The Merrell Morphlite is lightweight, making it easy to wear for extended periods."
lightweight
comfortable
extended wear
"The lightweight nature of the shoe contributes to an enjoyable running experience."
lightweight
versatile
"The Morphlite has a light weight, making it easy to pick up the pace during runs."
lightweight
performance
"The shoe rolls forward smoothly during runs, providing an enjoyable experience."
smooth transition
running mechanics
enjoyable
"It is suitable for both short and long distances due to its lightweight nature."
distance
short runs
long runs
"The shoe transitions well from road to trail, making it versatile for various terrains."
road
trail
hybrid
"The shoes are suitable for both road and trail running, making them a versatile option for mixed-terrain runners."
multi-terrain
versatile
"The shoes perform satisfactorily in various terrains, including dirt and sand."
terrain handling
versatile
multi-surface
"The shoe is fun to wear due to its lightweight nature, enhancing the overall experience."
fun to wear
lightweight
overall experience
"The lightweight construction of the shoe offers a bouncy feeling during runs, promoting an energetic stride."
lightweight
bouncy
trail
"The lightweight design of the shoe allows for easy pace picking, enhancing performance during runs."
lightweight
performance
"The Merrell Morphlite offers a smooth ride, especially beneficial when transitioning between surfaces."
smooth ride
pavement to trail
versatile
road-to-trail
"The shoe transitions smoothly between road and trail conditions, highlighting its hybrid functionality."
hybrid shoe
road/trail
"Performance-wise, it transitions smoothly between road and trail conditions."
road
trail
hybrid
"The Merrell Morphlite provides a smooth and comfortable ride on asphalt, which is noteworthy for a trail shoe."
comfort
smooth ride
versatility
"The shoe performs well on light trails and offers a balanced ride on various surfaces."
light trails
road performance
"The shoe's design and foam technology contribute to a pleasant rolling motion while running."
rocker
responsiveness
"The shoe performs well on easy trails and urban paths, providing a smooth ride."
trails
urban
performance
"The Morphlite features a lightweight and flexible design that allows for a natural running motion."
lightweight
flexibility
natural motion
Cons
"The shoe does not perform well on technical trails, making it unsuitable for serious off-road use."
technical trails
performance
off-road use
"The shoe is not suitable for technical trails."
technical
performance
trail
"The midsole doesn't provide much responsiveness, affecting performance."
midsole
lightweight
"Does not provide a strong sense of trail feel."
trail feel
running
performance
"The shoes are not recommended for technical trails due to design limitations."
technical trails
support
performance
"The shoe may not perform well under more demanding trail conditions due to its design as a road-to-trail shoe."
performance
design
road-to-trail
"The shoe is not designed for very technical or rugged trails."
technical
rugged
design_intent
"The Morphlite is not suitable for more challenging trails, which limits its versatility."
trail limitations
versatility
"The shoe only performs well on hard terrains, which can deter runners looking for a multi-surface option."
hard terrain only
surface limitations

comfort (3)
laces (3)
lockdown (2)
width (2)
looseness (2)
protection (2)
toe space (1)
size (1)
Pros
"It provides a comfortable fit with its Jacquard upper."
upper
jacquard
snug
"The upper provides a comfortable fit, with a traditional road shoe design."
upper design
comfort
fit
"The shoe offers a snug and comfortable fit due to its Jacquard upper."
Jacquard upper
snug fit
comfortable
"The shoe's fit is true to size and has a spacious toe box for natural toe splay, enhancing comfort during longer runs."
true to size
spacious
long-run comfort
"The fit of the shoe is true to size, providing a reliable option for buyers."
true to size
"The fit is secure with a good lockdown and a spacious toe box, accommodating foot swelling during runs."
secure fit
spacious toe box
"The internal bootie design helps to keep the foot securely in place during runs."
internal bootie
snug fit
ankle padding
"The Merrell Morphlite provides an excellent fit for those with wider feet due to its anatomical design."
wider fit
anatomical design
"The shoe offers a wider fit, accommodating those with broader feet comfortably."
wide fit
forefoot
midfoot
"The fit of the shoe is very good and accommodating for various foot shapes."
good fit
toe box
midfoot lockdown
"The shoe maintains a competitive profile height, making it suitable for various terrains."
profile
height
versatile
"The shoe integrates a secure lace management system to improve running efficiency."
secure
efficient
lace
"The updated fit of the Morphlite is an improvement over prior models, providing a more accommodating toe box and overall comfortable fit."
comfort
toe box
accommodating
"The shoe's upper provides a snug yet comfortable fit."
snug fit
internal structure
midsole
Cons
"The laces do not stay tight enough during runs, requiring double knotting."
lace performance
snug fit
adjustability
"The laces tend to come loose during running, affecting fit."
laces
fit issues
snug fit
"The laces tend to come loose during runs, requiring double knotting."
laces
fit
adjustment
"The shoe is limited to very light trail and gravel due to its design."
light trail
gravel
road shoe
"The upper lacks security, impacting confidence on varied terrain."
upper
technical terrain
"The upper of the Merrell Morphlite feels too loose, affecting the overall fit."
upper
fit
security
"The fit can be a bit loose for certain foot shapes, potentially affecting stability."
fit
loose
stability
"The heel counter does not provide adequate support and can slide around during runs."
heel counter
support
fit
"The shoes compromise stability on steep and rocky trails."
foot movement
stability
rocky trails
"Lacks adequate toe protection for rough terrain."
toe protection
fit
comfort
"Lack of substantial toe protection may lead to discomfort on sharp terrains."
toe box
protection
trails
"The fit may not be secure on uneven terrain."
uneven terrain
fit issues
"The upper lacks the structural support necessary for rugged terrain."
upper
support
breathability
"The wider fit requires a tight lockdown, resulting in potential discomfort."
tightness
comfortable
"The fit requires a very secure lockdown due to the shoe's lack of structure in the midfoot."
structure
midfoot
secure
"The fit on technical trails felt unstable, impacting control."
fit
stability
control
"Lack of midfoot structure can lead to an insecure fit for some runners."
midfoot
insecurity
"The toebox remains moderately tapered, which may not suit all foot shapes."
toe box
shape
fit
"The design may not be ideal for runners preferring a lower drop."
drop preference
stride interference

support (2)
transition (2)
platform (1)
stack height (1)
natural movement (1)
flexibility (1)
medial support (1)
neutral (1)
Pros
"The platform's width ensures stability when running on even terrain."
stability
wide platform
even terrain
"The shoe features a moderate stack height which enhances the overall running feel."
moderate stack
versatile
six point five millimeter drop
"The shoe's design allows for natural foot movement, which is essential for maintaining balance and stability on uneven terrain."
balance
uneven terrain
flexibility
"The flexibility of the shoe's upper allows for natural foot movement, enhancing stability on trails."
natural
stability
balance
"The Morphlite features a stable structure due to its wider midfoot, which enhances overall stability for the runner."
medial arch pressure
stability
"It provides adequate stability for neutral runners, making it suitable for various foot types."
mild stability
arch pressure
"There is stability provided through the internal heel counter and midsole structure."
stability
heel counter
"It features a well-designed structural support and protective elements."
protective
support
design
Cons
"The shoe lacks a stable feel on sharp turns and rocky sections, leading to a less secure experience."
sharp turns
rocky terrain
lateral stability
"The shoe's design may not provide sufficient stability when used outside its intended road and light trail purposes."
intended use
versatility
stability
"The shoe's flat footed style may lead to overpronation for some runners."
overpronation
foot posture
"The design is unsuitable for runners with hypermobility or weak ankles due to its flat structure."
hypermobility
tendon issues
weak ankles
"On technical terrain, the shoe does not provide enough stability, leading to foot movement inside the shoe."
technical terrain
stability
fit
"The shoes lack structural support for rugged terrain."
structural
rugged terrain
mesh upper
"The shoe has a low profile which may not offer enough support for some runners."
profile
support
low
"There is insufficient toe protection against sharp rocks."
toe protection
sharp objects
trail running
"The shoe lacks stability on technical trails."
technical trails
stability
"Stability is compromised on steeper and rockier trails."
movement
stability
trails
"The sidewalls may be too aggressive for some runners."
sidewalls
aggressiveness
"The heel transition can feel clunky due to design."
heel
clunky
"The heel transition is described as clunky and needs improvement."
heel
transition
flare
"The sidewalls may feel overly aggressive for some runners."
aggressiveness
sidewalls
lockdown
"The shoe is not stable on steep descents, especially in slippery conditions."
steep
slippery
"The drop of the shoe is inaccurately described, presenting inconsistencies with advertised specifications."
advertised drop
heel-to-toe drop
incorrect specs

traction (3)
lug design (1)
depth (1)
outsole (1)
aggressiveness (1)
wet_conditions (1)
durability (1)
coverage (1)
Pros
"The sticky rubber outsole provides durable traction on various surfaces."
sticky rubber
traction
durability
"The lugs provide some grip, making it suitable for gravel and dirt roads."
gravel
dirt roads
outsole
"The shoe offers excellent grip, particularly when making quick changes in direction, which enhances performance on trails."
grip
traction
trail
"The combination of shallow and deep lugs on the outsole provides excellent grip on both light trails and hard-packed surfaces."
light trails
stability
deep lugs
"The Morphlite provides excellent grip on various terrains, contributing to safety during runs."
excellent grip
deep lugs
"The rubber outsole provides excellent grip with 3 mm lugs, making them suitable for various terrains such as sand and dirt trails."
3 mm lugs
good traction
"The 3-millimeter lug depth provides adequate grip for light trails."
lug depth
grip
light trails
"The sticky rubber outsole ensures durable traction on various surfaces."
sticky rubber
durable
traction
"The shoe features excellent traction on smooth surfaces, enhancing grip during runs."
traction
mild lugs
"The grip provided by the shoe's deep lugs is excellent for various terrains."
lug pattern
excellent grip
versatile terrain
Cons
"While suitable for light trails and roads, the shoe's grip may not be ideal for diverse or harsh conditions due to its less aggressive lugs."
traction
lug depth
light trails
"The lug depth is insufficient for adequate grip on trails."
traction
outsole
"Limited effectiveness on challenging trail conditions due to the design."
traction
design
stability
"The outsole lugs are insufficient for grip on technical terrain."
outsole
lugs
terrain
"The traction in muddy conditions is inadequate, leading to slipping."
muddy conditions
slipping
"The outsole lugs are insufficient for technical terrain."
traction
technical terrain
"The grip is not aggressive enough for more demanding trail conditions."
grip
lugs
trail
"The shoe lacks sufficient grip on wet and muddy surfaces."
slip
mud
downhill
"The outsole wears down quickly and loses grip after a few runs."
outsole
tread
wear
"Sparse outsole coverage limits traction and protection."
outsole
traction
protection

value (8)
affordability (4)
sustainability (4)
weight (2)
lightweight (2)
lightness (2)
versatility (2)
price (1)
Pros
"It has a reasonable price point for a hybrid shoe."
price
value
"The shoe provides good value for money, appealing for budget-conscious runners entering trail running."
budget
value
trail
"It offers a surprisingly strong overall performance given its low price point, making it an excellent choice for new runners."
budget
performance
"The price point of the Merrell Morphlite is reasonable compared to other options on the market."
cost-effective
value
"The shoe offers great value at an affordable price."
affordability
value
cost
"It is extremely lightweight, enhancing the overall running experience."
lightweight
comfortable
running experience
"The Merrell Morf Lite is the lightest shoe among its competitors."
lightweight
competitor
running
shoe
"The use of recycled materials in the shoe aligns with sustainability practices, beneficial for environmentally conscious consumers."
sustainable
recycled
eco-friendly
"The shoe is made from sustainable materials, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility."
sustainable materials
eco-friendly
"The shoe is made with eco-conscious recycled materials, appealing to environmentally-aware consumers."
eco-friendly
recycled materials
sustainable
"The shoe's design incorporates sustainable materials, adding to its appeal."
recycled materials
sustainable
environmental
"The lightweight nature of the shoe enhances the overall running experience."
light weight
versatile
running experience
"The shoe features a lightweight construction, weighing only 8.4 oz, which enhances the running experience for those prioritizing minimal weight."
lightweight
minimal
agility
"The shoe is reasonably priced at $100 for the features it offers."
affordable
100 dollars
great value
"The price is very reasonable for the quality provided, making it a smart purchase choice."
affordable
good value
"The price point is very competitive, making these shoes accessible to many runners."
affordable
great price
"The shoe is reasonably priced compared to other models on the market."
affordable
value for money
"Its price point makes it an appealing choice for budget-conscious runners."
affordable
budget
"The shoe has a very appealing price point for its features."
price
affordability
"Its competitive price point offers great value compared to other brands."
price
affordable
competitor
"The Morphlite shoes offer an affordable price compared to other brands with similar features."
affordable
value
price
"It offers a great variety of color options, appealing to those who appreciate aesthetics."
variety
color options
"They feature odor control technology, keeping them fresh during usage."
odor resistant
freshness
"The Merrell Morphlite is impressively lightweight, making it easy to wear for extended periods."
lightweight
versatile
road-run
trail-running
"The shoe feels light and nimble when running."
lightweight
nimble
flexibility
"The shoe is offered at an excellent price point, making it a value choice for budget-conscious runners."
affordable
value
budget-friendly
"Its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of terrains, allowing for a seamless transition from road to light trail running."
multi-terrain
adaptable
flexible
"The Merrell Morphlite is an excellent versatile shoe for both road and light trail running."
road
trail
lightweight
supportive
affordable
"The shoe includes environmentally friendly materials, adding to its appeal."
vegan
sustainable
recycled materials
Cons
"The low price reflects some lack of features that may be vital for serious trail runners."
budget
entry level
feature limitations
"Not suitable for very muddy or technical trails."
muddy
technical
trail
"Footwear wasn't tested thoroughly on trails outside its intended use, highlighting a limitation."
limitations
intended use
"The materials used in construction feel basic and may not hold up over time compared to premium models."
materials
budget
quality
"The shoe may not be suitable for extremely technical trails."
technical trails
limitations

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Reviews

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Wear-tester reviews (20)

4.2/5

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