Merrell nova 3

Learn more about the Merrell nova 3 female running shoes, including key features, performance, reviews, model updates, and more.

Merrell nova 3

Price

$250

Rating

High

Popularity

Moderate

The Merrell Nova 3 is a versatile trail-running shoe offering a balance of comfort and durability, positioned between the lightweight agility of the Merrell Bare Access and the rugged protection of the Merrell Moab series in the Merrell lineup.

Merrell
nova 3 - rainbow

Anthony
Got a question about the Merrell nova 3?
AI-powered

We've got access to 1000s of long-form youtube, google and other Fittir user reviews which means we can answer any question about this shoe. Ask anything, and me and my AI assistant will do our best to answer your question.

Or try one of these questions:

How does the cushioning feel?
Is it suitable for wide feet?
What's the durability like?
How does it compare to the previous version?

Summary

The Merrell Nova 3 is a trail running shoe that offers a balance of comfort, durability, and performance for outdoor enthusiasts. Positioned within Merrell's lineup as a versatile choice, the Nova 3 is designed for those who enjoy varied terrains, making it ideal for trail runners who navigate diverse paths. Compared to other models in Merrell's trail running collection, the Nova 3 provides a robust yet lightweight feel, incorporating moderate cushioning and a supportive fit that caters to both short and long-distance runners. It sits between the more minimalist models that focus on agility and the heavily cushioned options aimed at providing maximum comfort over ultra-long distances. The Nova 3's emphasis on reliable traction and protection makes it a favorable option for runners encountering rugged environments.

Surface

trail

Cushioning

MinLowMediumHighMax(25mm)

Category

ResponsiveBalancedComfort

Breathability

LowMediumHigh(engineered mesh upper)

Weight

295g

Heel-to-Toe Drop

8mm0mm14mm

Support

NeutralLightHigh

Width options

normal

Grip

LowMediumHighMax(medium density, 4mm lugs)

Suitability

___% Match

Based on your running profile and intended use, this shoe is a ___% match. Click the dropdowns in each section to learn more.

Based on your running style and needs

▼

Want to know if the Merrell nova 3 is right for you?

Our shoe finder is personalised to your needs, and has been used by thousands of runners across the globe.

Get a personalised recommendation

Pros & Cons

AI-powered

Fittir conducts a detailed analysis of the Merrell nova 3 to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the shoes features, pros, and cons based on 28 wear-tester reviews.

Most Mentioned Pros

Most Mentioned Cons

shock absorption (5)
comfort (2)
thickness (2)
comfortable (1)
balanced (1)
temperature stability (1)
midsole (1)
responsive (1)
Pros
"The EVA midsole with foam pods provides effective shock absorption for a comfortable running experience."
EVA midsole
shock absorption
cushioning
"The midsole offers shock attenuation, protecting feet during trail running or hiking."
cushioning
shock protection
"The midsole is designed to provide durable shock absorption while offering some cushioning."
cushion
shock absorption
"The cushioning in the Nova 3 helps absorb shock effectively, providing excellent support."
midsole
stability
support
"The dual density cushioned midsole effectively absorbs shock for a softer experience."
dual density
midsole
shock absorption
"Its ample cushioning and underfoot protection strike a good balance between comfort and sturdiness."
cushioning
underfoot protection
comfort level
"It has a plush midsole that provides ample cushioning for comfort during extended wear."
cushioning
comfortable
"The cushioning in the shoe is generous, making it comfortable for extended use."
cushioning
comfort during use
"The midsole material is designed to provide a balanced ride, accommodating various foot types."
FloatPro
EVA foam
balanced ride
"The shoe maintains a consistent feel across varying temperatures, ensuring comfort year-round."
temperature consistency
year-round use
"The midsole provides a supportive yet cushioning experience, balancing comfort and support."
supportive
cushioning
"The shoe offers excellent cushioning for long runs."
cushioning
soft
impact absorption
"La tecnología de la media suela proporciona un buen equilibrio entre confort y reactividad."
media suela
reactivity
"The shoe features ample cushioning around the heel for comfort over long distances."
cushioning
comfort
Cons
"The cushioning is thinner than what is typically found in true hiking shoes, which may lead to discomfort on longer hikes."
cushioning
fatigue
"The cushioning in the Merrell shoes is thinner compared to the Keen's insole."
thinner
insole
"The cushioning is described as average, with no especially bouncy feel, which may not satisfy runners seeking plush comfort."
cushioning
comfort
"The midsole provides insufficient cushioning for hard-packed ground or paved paths."
cushioning
hard surfaces
"There is insufficient cushioning for long-distance runs."
long-distance
soreness
"The cushioning doesn't provide a soft feeling, which might not be ideal for everyone."
firm-cushion
not-soft
"There is insufficient cushioning which affects the running experience."
cushion
discomfort
long runs

overall (5)
stiffness (3)
breathability (2)
fit (2)
protection (2)
support (2)
sneaker-like (1)
foot support (1)
Pros
"This shoe offers a good balance of comfort for casual hikers, resembling a casual sneaker style."
comfort
casual
accessible
"The shoe has a breathable and quick-drying upper that maintains comfort during wet conditions."
quick-drying
breathable
upper
"The shoe's upper is breathable, providing comfort and ventilation during use."
breathable upper
ventilation
"The Nova 3 features a breathable mesh lining that helps keep feet dry and comfortable."
moisture control
ventilation
comfort
"The shoes offer great breathability, preventing sweaty feet during use."
breathable
moisture management
"The roomy toe box and sturdy arch support enhance overall foot comfort during runs and hikes."
toe box
arch support
comfort
"The shoe's anti-microbial treatment helps reduce odor, adding to its overall comfort in wet conditions."
anti-microbial
odor control
comfort
"On softer ground, the Nova 3 is comfortable for short and medium distance runs, making it suitable for certain trail conditions."
comfort
trail running
"The shoe provides a comfortable fit that feels like a glove."
initial fit
molded fit
comfort
support
"The Merrell Nova 3 Thermo boots are exceptionally comfortable, fitting like a running shoe."
comfort
fit
running shoe-like
"The tongue's gusseted design prevents debris from entering the shoe, enhancing comfort during use."
gusseted
debris protection
"The shoe features a comfortable upper that performs well even in wet conditions without causing blisters or hotspots."
comfort
wet conditions
blisters
"The shoe provides exceptional comfort right from the start."
comfort
cushioning
support
"The shoes are extremely comfortable for long hikes without any hot spots."
comfortable
long hikes
no hot spots
"The shoe provides excellent comfort."
comfort
satisfaction
"The shoes are very comfortable, providing a pleasant experience while wearing."
comfort
wearability
"The shoe’s comfort level allows for prolonged wear during long treks."
comfort
durability
long wear
"The Merrell Nova 3 offers excellent comfort for trail running and walking."
trail running
hiking
comfort
"The shoes have a good flex that accommodates movement on different terrains without pinching."
flexible
comfort
movement
"The shoe is designed with a rock plate for enhanced protection against rough terrain."
rock plate
protection
comfort
"The gusseted tongue keeps out debris, which is beneficial for outdoor activities."
gusseted
debris
outdoor
"The shoes provide good support and comfort, especially with the removable insole."
support
comfort
removable insole
"Both models have good arch support, applicable for various foot shapes and conditions."
arch support
comfort
"The Merrell Nova 3 is highly comfortable for extended wear."
comfortable
wear
extended
"The padding on the tongue and collar contributes to the overall comfort of the shoe."
tongue
collar
comfort
"El diseño de acolchados generosos contribuye significativamente al confort durante las carreras."
comfort
cushioning
"The shoe has a removable cushioned footbed that enhances comfort during runs or walks."
removable
cushioned
footbed
"Ideal para largas distancias, permitiendo un uso prolongado sin incomodidad."
long distances
training
comfort
"The shoe is exceptionally comfortable, even for all-day wear."
comfortable
lightweight
breathable
Cons
"At times, the shoe's stiffness was more noticeable than expected."
stiffness
comfort
"The shoe's stiffness can be uncomfortable at times."
stiffness
discomfort
"The shoes have an issue with being overly stiff."
break-in
initial feel
"The tongue padding is overly thick, leading to potential discomfort for some runners."
comfort
padding
"The shoes took a long time to break in before they were comfortable."
long break-in
initial discomfort
"While the shoes are praised for their comfort, there is a concern regarding potential pinching on steep climbs."
climbing comfort
steep terrain
"There is limited padding in the heel cup, which might affect comfort over long distances."
insufficient padding
heel comfort
"Breathability is still a concern when wearing waterproof shoes in hot weather."
sweat
seasonality
"La transpirabilidad de las zapatillas puede ser insuficiente, especialmente en climas fríos."
transpirabilidad
clima frío
gore-tex
"They may not be suitable for very cold temperatures over extended periods."
cold weather
limitations
"The Merrell shoes create a clunky feeling when wearing them for extended periods outside of trail situations."
clunky
enjoyment
"La comodidad puede verse comprometida en distancias largas debido a la falta de reactividad."
comodidad
distancias largas
"The shaft height is shorter than ideal, reducing ankle support."
support
stability
design
"The shoes feel uncomfortable around the toe box area."
comfort
toe box
extended wear

protection (4)
outsole (2)
wear (2)
material (1)
upper (1)
longevity (1)
support (1)
body (1)
Pros
"A durable rock plate enhances protection during rough terrain activities."
durable
rock plate
"A rock plate protects the foot from rough terrain."
rock_plate
durability
trail
"Abrasion-resistant materials at the toe provide added protection for outdoor activities."
abrasion-resistant
toe
protection
"Both shoes have reinforced toe caps which enhance protection against wear."
toe cap
durability
"Durability is a key feature, evidenced by the shoe's resistance to wear and tear."
toe cap
tear resistance
long-lasting
"The SRC compound offers flexibility and durability, contributing to the overall performance of the Nova 3."
SRC compound
flexibility
"The upper material is designed to keep water and dirt out, enhancing overall durability."
water-resistant
dirt-resistant
durability
"The durability of the shoes is commendable, as they have held up well after six months of use."
durability
long-lasting
resilience
"The shoe has a fabric upper combined with synthetic materials, ensuring good structural support."
fabric
synthetic
structural support
"The Vibram rubber outsole provides durability and features a rock plate for added foot protection."
Vibram
outsole
rock plate
"The durability of the Keen model's body structure provides additional support and toughness."
durability
support
"The Merrel Nova 3 has proven to be durable after substantial use."
durability
long usage
quality
"Durability of the materials used is impressive."
long-lasting
resistant
high quality
"The shoes are lightweight, making them suitable for running without issues."
lightweight
running
"Durability has been improved in the flex zones of the shoe, enhancing its lifespan."
durability
longevity
Cons
"The shoe's mesh material has a slower drying time, affecting usability in wet conditions."
mesh
wet conditions
"Durability issues reported with the upper material could affect longevity."
durability
upper
material
"The shoe's heel padding durability scored disappointingly low in tests."
durability
heel padding
"The shoe's outsole is relatively thin, potentially affecting durability."
durability
outsole
"The shoe shows signs of wear more quickly than expected."
wear
concern
"Long-term durability remains uncertain despite good initial performance."
initial performance
uncertainty
"The Merrell's body structure feels less durable compared to the Keen's."
durability
material
structure
"There is some fraying developing on the Merrell shoes after eight months of use."
fraying
long-term_use
"The durability of the shoe is questionable after limited use."
durability
sole
short usage
"La durabilidad de la media suela puede ser un punto débil en comparación con otros materiales más resistentes."
durabilidad
media suela
desgaste
"After minimal use, the boots showed signs of wear and durability issues."
wear and tear
scuffing
long-term

weight (3)
speed (2)
fatigue prevention (1)
dynamism (1)
stride (1)
intensity (1)
comparative (1)
trail suitability (1)
Pros
"A lightweight construction makes the Merrell Nova ideal for swift movements during activities."
lightweight
agility
"The shoe is lightweight, which enhances endurance during long hikes."
lightweight
endurance
easy movement
"The rock plate enhances performance by preventing foot fatigue on rugged terrains."
performance
rock plate
rugged terrains
"A rocker design improves dynamism and comfort during runs."
rocker
dynamism
"The boots have a rockered sole that provides a smooth and comfortable stride."
rockered sole
smooth
comfortable stride
Cons
"The Merrell Nova is better suited for average hikers, which could limit its appeal for serious hikers or dedicated trail runners."
beginner-friendly
limited use
"Some testers found the shoe felt a bit heavy during runs, which could impact speed."
speed
weight
"The shoe is relatively heavy, which may affect performance during runs."
heavy
performance impact
"El peso de 300 gramos puede sentirse un poco pesado para algunos corredores."
peso
ligereza
"The toe protection is a positive, but the overall performance is outshined by competitors with better features."
competition
agility
responsive
"The shoe isn't suitable for fast-paced running, limiting its versatility."
performance
speed
"The shoe is not suitable for running at fast paces."
speed
performance
limitations
"The design limits its usability to mild and moderate trails only."
trail
performance
limitations
"The shoe is not suitable for long-distance racing."
long-distance
not-racing
"The shoe may not perform well in very demanding situations due to its design."
performance-limits
not-aggressive
"La zapatilla puede no ser adecuada para ritmos de carrera más altos."
alta velocidad
competencia
"The rocker sole compromises downhill grip due to reduced surface area."
traction
downhill
safety

width (3)
size (2)
tightness (2)
wide (1)
heel lock (1)
heel (1)
adjustability (1)
heel lockdown (1)
Pros
"The Merrell Nova provides good fit options for a variety of foot shapes, particularly for wider feet."
fit
wide options
roomy
"The shoe fits true to size for most users, providing a comfortable fit overall."
true to size
fit
comfort
"The Merrell Nova fits true to size, ensuring a comfortable fit for the wearer."
true to size
consistent fit
"The shoe provides a secure foothold, preventing heel movement and potential blisters."
secure
blister prevention
extra lace hole
"The shoe provides an excellent fit that cradles the heel and offers room in the toe box."
fit
comfort
heel support
"The shoe offers a personalized fit due to its adjustable lacing system."
lacing
personalized fit
stability
"The shoe provides secure heel lockdown, which enhances stability and fit for the runner."
stability
fit
"The Merrell Nova 3 has a traditional fit that feels snug without being restrictive, ideal for technical terrain."
fit
technical terrain
"The use of a men's specific shoe shape enhances overall comfort."
fit
design
gender_specific
"The shoes come in wide sizes, accommodating those who need extra room."
wide fit
"The shoe offers a roomy interior that accommodates various foot shapes and provides comfort during wear."
roomy
comfort
fit
"The design of the Nova 3 looks good and fits well into a casual or fashionable outfit."
fashionable
look
aesthetics
"The shoe features a lightweight design, making it suitable for extended wear."
lightweight
comfortable
"The unique lace-up design offers a secure fit, helping to keep the foot locked in place."
lace-up
secure
"The Merrells have a more flexible body structure that may appeal to those seeking a trail runner experience."
flexibility
comfort
"El diseño permite adaptarse a corredores de diferentes pesos, incluidos aquellos de mayor peso."
heavy
supportive
"La construcción de la lengüeta facilita un ajuste cómodo y característico de trekking."
adjustable
comfortable
"The lightweight nature of the Merrell Nova 3 makes it highly beneficial for treks."
lightweight
trekking
comfort
"Fit is true to size and very accommodating."
size
adjustability
secure fit
Cons
"The midfoot area might be too wide for runners with narrow feet, potentially affecting fit for some."
fit
narrow
"The fit might not be suitable for everyone, especially for those with wide feet."
narrow
midfoot
"The boot fit may favor those with narrower feet, potentially uncomfortable for wider feet."
shoe size
comfort
feet
"The shoe lacks sufficient arch support which may be problematic for certain runners."
arch
support
neutral runner
"The forefoot area was initially tight, causing discomfort before breaking in."
snug
forefoot
initial fit
"The fit of the shoes runs small, causing discomfort."
fit
size
soreness
"A break-in period is needed for optimal comfort and fit."
break-in
comfort
fit adjustment
"The toebox width may not accommodate those with wider feet, impacting comfort."
fit
toebox
narrow
"The individual switched out the original laces for a different type, indicating a potential issue with the original laces."
lace preference
fit adjustment
"The lacing system presented challenges due to the shoe's roomy fit."
roomy
lacing issues
fit adjustment
"Shoe availability and sizing can be inconsistent and limited."
stock issue
purchase difficulty
"The Keen shoe lacks a pull tab, making it a bit difficult to put on compared to the Merrell."
pull_tab
fit
ease_of_use
"The shoe feels more like a trekking shoe rather than a dedicated trail running shoe."
trekking
not-dedicated

protection (4)
heel lockdown (1)
balance (1)
adaptive_design (1)
downhill (1)
ankle support (1)
heel lock (1)
support (1)
Pros
"The shoe features a secure heel lockdown which enhances stability during runs."
stability
heel lockdown
"The integrated rock plate offers added protection underfoot, which is beneficial for trail running."
rock plate
underfoot protection
"The integrated rock plate gives additional underfoot protection, enhancing safety during trail runs."
rock plate
underfoot protection
"The shoe has a protective rock plate that adds to the safety during trail runs."
rock plate
safety
trail running
"Las protecciones y soporte en la parte delantera ofrecen seguridad en terrenos difíciles."
safety
protection
"The shoe offers a good blend of sensitivity and stability, making it versatile for different trail conditions."
sensitivity
stability
"The Adaptive lugs contribute to stability on uneven surfaces."
stability
lug_system
traction
"The shoe maintains good stability and comfort during downhill runs."
stability
downhill
traction
"The shoe's mid-top design offers ankle support while remaining comfortable around the collar."
stability
ankle support
comfortable
"The shoe includes rear sling technology that locks the heel in place for added stability."
heel stability
locked in
secure fit
"La Merrell Nova 3 ofrece una buena estabilidad, especialmente en terrenos bajos y compactos."
trail
stable
mountain
"Stability during runs helps improve overall performance."
stability
confidence
secure
Cons
"Some stability issues were noted when navigating downhill due to the shoe's roominess."
downhill
stability
"Lack of agility for quick bursts of speed in very technical settings."
agility
speed
"Puede carecer de un soporte adecuado para pronadores o corredores que necesitan estabilidad adicional."
pronación
estabilidad

wet surfaces (2)
multi-surface (1)
traction (1)
outsole (1)
performance (1)
adaptive lugs (1)
terrain suitability (1)
lugs (1)
Pros
"The shoe incorporates Vibram outsoles which enhance traction across various terrains."
traction
Vibram
versatile
"The shoe features excellent traction from the Vibram outsole, ensuring a secure grip on various terrains."
Vibram
traction
grip
"The sole features superb traction thanks to the Vibram material and triangular lugs."
superb traction
Vibram
lug pattern
"The Vibram TC5+ outsole provides superior grip on varied terrains, enhancing performance."
outsole
grip
versatile
"The Vibram outsole provides excellent grip and durability, enhancing traction on trails."
Vibram
durability
traction
outsole
"The shoe features a Vibram outsole with effective traction lugs, providing superior grip on various terrains."
outsole
vibram
traction
"With a well-designed outsole and soft rubber, the Nova 3 delivers excellent traction on various terrains including wet conditions."
traction
grip
wet conditions
"The shoe offers reliable traction on various terrains."
traction
outsole
versatility
"The Vibram sole provides good traction and durability."
Vibram
traction
durability
"The Vibram soles provide excellent grip in various conditions, which enhances traction."
vibram
traction
grip
versatile
"The Merrells feature a superior traction pattern with 5mm lugs, enhancing grip on various terrains."
traction
grip
outdoor
"The grip of the shoes is impressive, allowing for confident movement even in challenging positions."
grip
performance
"La suela Vibram TC5 Plus proporciona una buena tracción en terrenos compactos y pedregosos."
vibram
grip
durability
"El taco tipo flecha facilita la tracción hacia adelante, mejorando el rendimiento en subida."
aggressive
running
"The Vibram TC5 Plus sole offers reliable grip across various terrains."
odds
grip
versatility
"The grip on the outsole provides excellent traction."
traction
outsole
wet surfaces
"The use of Vibram sole enhances grip and adaptability to different terrains."
Vibram
grip
"The traction of the Nova 3 Thermo boots is impressive in various conditions."
traction
confidence
mixed conditions
"The shoe has a highly effective Vibram outsole which provides excellent grip."
Vibram
grip
durability
"The shoes exceeded expectations in terms of grip during a challenging test."
grip
testing
"The shoe includes adaptive lugs that adjust to the surface for better grip."
adaptive lugs
traction
Cons
"The shoe may not perform well on technical terrain as it doesn't excel in traction for scrambling."
traction
scrambling
"The grip of the outsole is subpar, particularly on damp and hard-packed terrain."
grip issue
Vibram
damp conditions
"The shoe runs better on loose dirt and gravel than in muddy conditions, where it struggles."
mud performance
gravel surface
"While the lugs are versatile, they may not perform well in extreme terrains or conditions."
grip
traction
"The grip on wet surfaces is not very reliable."
slipping
trail running
"They are not designed for technical terrains."
technical-terrain
limited-ability
"La suela puede resbalar en césped húmedo, lo que limita su versatilidad en determinadas condiciones."
resbalón
césped húmedo
superficie resbaladiza
"The shoes do not provide adequate grip on wet surfaces."
grip
slipping
rain
"La suela puede no ofrecer un agarre óptimo en terrenos muy exigentes."
terrenos exigentes
suela

waterproof (4)
lightweight (3)
value (3)
eco-friendly (3)
versatility (3)
affordability (2)
aesthetics (2)
visibility (2)
Pros
"The Merrell Nova is notably lighter than average hiking shoes, making it great for quick hikes."
lightweight
hiking
efficient
"The shoes are lightweight, making them easy to wear for extended periods."
lightweight
easy
comfortable
"The lightweight design of the boots enhances their usability for casual outings."
lightweight
casual
easy to wear
"The Nova is budget-friendly compared to other hiking shoe options, making it a viable choice for cost-conscious buyers."
budget-friendly
value
affordable
"The Merrell Nova 3 is affordably priced, making it a great option for budget-conscious runners."
affordable
value
"Available in fun colorways, the Merrell Nova adds a fashionable touch to outdoor footwear."
colorways
fashionable
style
"The shoes have a stylish design that appeals to the user."
style
appeal
"Reflective details improve visibility in low-light conditions for added safety."
reflective strips
safety
"The reflective materials at the heel enhance visibility during low light conditions."
reflective
visibility
"The price point of the Nova 3 is considered to be attractive for a trail running shoe."
price
value
"The shoe is attractively priced relative to its features, offering good value."
affordability
value
"Its pricing is considered attractive for the range of features it offers, providing good value for the investment."
affordable
value for money
"The Nova 3 is available in both waterproof and non-waterproof versions, providing options for different conditions."
waterproof
options
"The shoe incorporates a fair amount of recycled materials, which aligns with growing sustainability trends."
recycled materials
eco-friendly
"The shoe is environmentally friendly, made with recycled materials without sacrificing performance."
eco-friendly
recycled materials
"The Nova 3 provides good weather protection through its TPU upper."
TPU
moisture protection
comfort
"The shoe's upper is made entirely from recycled materials, showcasing environmental responsibility."
recycled materials
sustainability
"The shoe features an upper made entirely from recycled materials, promoting environmental sustainability."
sustainability
recycled materials
"The use of recycled materials in construction is a positive environmental aspect."
sustainability
recycled materials
environmentally friendly
"The Merrell Nova 3 is ideal for beginners looking for a versatile shoe suitable for various outdoor activities."
beginner friendly
versatile
all-terrain
"The overall design allows for decent breathability, especially in the toe box area."
breathability
airflow
"The shoes provide good breathability, preventing clamminess during humid conditions."
breathability
humidity
"The Nova 3 is versatile for different outdoor activities including running, walking, and hiking, making it suitable for various runners."
hiking
walking
trail running
"The reviewer is impressed enough to consider these shoes for hunting, suggesting they are suitable for diverse outdoor activities."
hunting
outdoor activities
"The shoe is versatile enough for a variety of outdoor activities including hiking and running."
versatile
outdoors
multifunctional
"Many runners will find the shoe suitable for mild to moderate trails, making it a practical choice for various outdoor activities."
trail
moderate terrain
"The shoe is favorable for beginner runners due to its forgiving nature and comfort."
beginner friendly
easy to use
"The design provides adequate foot protection for various trail activities without being overly stiff or minimal."
foot protection
versatility
"Despite its heavier weight, the shoe feels nimble and durable enough for various trail runs."
weight
durability
nimble
"The waterproof membrane is effective while still allowing for breathability, surpassing the reviewer's expectations."
waterproof
breathability
effective
"The shoe features water-repellent materials, making it suitable for varying weather conditions."
water-resistant
weather
versatile
"Both models feature excellent waterproof capabilities, ensuring dryness even in wet conditions."
waterproof
durability
"The shoes feature Gore-Tex material which provides excellent waterproofing."
waterproof
durability
protection
"The shoes retain a stylish design, making them suitable for casual wear as well as hiking."
style
casual
hiking
"The shoe features M FRESH antimicrobial agents which help in reducing odor, promoting freshness during use."
antimicrobial
odor
freshness
"The design and appearance of the shoe are appealing."
design
style
"The shoe's design includes features to secure the shoelaces, which enhances safety."
safety
design
convenience
"The shoes offer a lightweight option compared to traditional hiking boots."
lightweight
hiking
comfort
"Las zapatillas están diseñadas con un peso razonable, facilitando el movimiento en terrenos variados."
lightweight
versatile
"Overall, the user feels positive about the shoes, indicating they might have overlooked a good option for a long time."
realization
discovery
"The boots are designed to keep feet warm in moderately cold conditions."
warmth
Primaloft
cold conditions
Cons
"The Merrell Nova lacks standout features compared to other shoes in its category."
featureless
comparison
"The shoe is only available in a men's version, limiting options for female runners."
availability
gender
"The upper material is not water-resistant, which may be a drawback in wet conditions despite its quick-drying feature."
moisture
upper material
"The design of the shoe lacks excitement and appears generic."
generic design
lack of innovation
"The shoe may skew towards an older demographic with its design."
demographic
style
"Merrell's sustainability claims are vague and have been rated poorly by watchdogs."
sustainability
transparency issues
"The shoe is heavier than ideal, affecting overall running experience."
heavy
running experience
"The shoe is heavier than ideal for some runners."
weight
heaviness
"The shoe's breathability could be considered just average, limiting its use in hotter conditions."
breathability
mesh
"The shoe's weight is considerable, making it less suitable for quick movements."
weight
bulkiness
performance
"Due to its heavier build, the shoe feels less lively during the full running stroke."
responsiveness
performance
"Long drying times may be an issue for wet conditions."
wet conditions
dry time
"While the reviewer praises the breathability, there is an indication that the original shoes might not be waterproof, thus potentially limiting their usability in wet conditions."
breathability
not waterproof
"The reviewer plans to order a different version (gore-tex) which suggests that the current version may not meet all their needs, especially in colder, wetter seasons."
season limitation
version upgrade
"Despite being rated as an intermediate trail shoe, it may not suit beginners due to its robust design."
beginner suitability
intermediate rating
"The shoe lacks a pull tab which would have made it easier to put on."
ease of use
design flaw
"Merrell may not appeal to fashion-forward consumers despite its quality."
fashion
brand perception
"The Merrell brand image is associated with outdated fashion choices which could deter younger buyers."
perception
youth appeal
"While the construction seems solid, there may be questions about style compatibility for various outfits."
style
versatility
"The review implies a lack of innovative design which could keep it from competing with trendier brands."
design
competition
"The lack of waterproofing allows moisture to seep in quickly."
moisture
snow
leakage
"The waterproofing claims of the boots are not reliable in deep snow conditions."
claims
ineffective
snow
"The insulation is insufficient for very low temperatures, leading to cold feet."
cold weather
insufficient
poor performance

Need help picking the right size?

Take a short quiz to help us find the right size for you compared to your current shoe. It takes 2 minutes.

Powered byFittir Logo
Get started

Model Updates

Older Models

Newer Models

Reviews

Read reviews about the Merrell nova 3 from across the internet, including reviews from other runners on Fittir, wear testers from google & youtube, and more.

Reviews on Fittir (-)

...

Wear-tester reviews (28)

4.1/5

Prices

Find the best price for the Merrell nova 3 from across the internet with our partnered shoe retailers*.

We couldn't find any stock with our partners. Try searching google instead.

*When you click through to the retailer, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Its a great way to support us and keep this site free.

Similar Shoes

Most similar
Cheaper
More cushioned
More grip
Lighter
More responsive
Softer Cushion
Same brand
Different brand
Less cushioned
More expensive