Merrell All Out Rush Trail Review

What They Say:

Discover the latest innovation in low-impact running shoes for men. Designed with natural shaping and intelligent impact absorption, our men’s All Out Rush shoe will help you unleash your best run. So, when you’re looking for lightweight, comfortable, yet rugged, trail running shoes with a little more cushion for rockier paths, this is the shoe you need. Go all out with a running shoe for men that provides continuous contact with the arch for increased mobility through a flexible underfoot wrap. Plus, the ultra-resilient UniFly™ impact absorption of the men’s All Out Rush gives you firm takeoffs and soft landings and M-Select GRIP traction gives you multi-directional control over varied terrain. Find your perfect fit and out run the competition or last week’s PR with the All Out Rush. - See more at: http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/33642M/0/Mens/All-Out-Rush#sthash.1qI1LdJT.dpuf

UPPER/LINING
• Mesh and TPU upper
• Protective toecap
• Reflective details for increased visibility in low light
• Merrell Omni-Fit Lacing system provides a precise, glove-like fit
• Breathable mesh lining treated with M-Select FRESH odor control
• Wash as needed in cold water (gentle cycle) air dry

MIDSOLE/OUTSOLE
• UniFly™ Midsole disperses impact and stabilizes for a solid takeoff
• M-Select GRIP tunes each outsole with durable traction that grips when and where you need it

Men's Weight: 9.3oz (1/2 pair) - See more at: http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/33642M/0/Mens/All-Out-Rush#sthash.1qI1LdJT.dpuf

What I Say:

I mentioned in several of my prior reviews that I my standard for a positive shoe review is simply that a shoe's qualities are really quite basic: does the shoe it allow you to forget it is there on the run? Trail running provides a unique set of variables to challenge a shoe. But in my most recent trail run the Merrell All Out Trail easily meets that standard.

I recently competed in a 50K trail race which consisted of 4 long loops. I wore the Merrell All Out Trail shoes for the final two laps of that race and it was an extremely positive experience. The shoes were a blessing to a tired, weather wearied pair of feet.

I have begun the race with another pair of trail shoes which worked effectively. So I was in reasonably good shape when I opted for the fresh, dry pair of Merrell All Out Trail. That alone was a wonderful change but as I headed out into the woods I was reminded why I love the Merrell line of minimalist offering, they provide a wonderfully, spacious toe box allowing ample toe splay. My little piggies screamed with freedom and delight.

Race day of my race was a misty wet one. No soaking rain while I wore the shoes but enough moisture to keep the trails wet. The Merrell All Out Trail provided a low riding, firm but flexible running surface to navigate the trails. They provided positive traction on wet rocks and roots but the soles were minimal enough to not collect mud. I want a trail shoe to provide a firm, but flexible fit, breathability and a lighter frame including a platform that provides grip, but is not overly loaded with sole/lugs.  The Merrell All Out Trail is a winner in all regards.

As with the majority of the Merrell minimalist line, I would rate the Merrell All Out Trail as Highly Recommended!