Merrell MTL SpeedArc Peak

Merrell · Trail · Trail Racing

Overall Score: 88/100 based on 3 verified expert reviews.

Technical Specifications

  • Weight: 303 g
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10.9 mm
  • Carbon Plate: Yes
  • Midsole Foam: Standard EVA
  • Official Retail MSRP: €400 (manufacturer reference price — better deals may be available at retailers)

Pros & Strengths

  • Reliable all-terrain grip and underfoot protection
  • Abrasion-resistant upper on rocky terrain
  • Propulsive leverage from the carbon fiber plate
  • 11 mm drop that relieves strain on the calves and Achilles

Cons & Trade-offs

  • Trade-off between weight and lateral support on technical ground
  • Demanding longitudinal stiffness at easy paces
  • Requires an active stride to fully load the plate
  • Premium retail price point (€290)

Expert Review Sources

  • iRunFar : 90.6 / 100 — « The Merrell MTL SpeedArc Peak ignited a surge in both my running adventures and mid-summer running speed. The running joy and fervor were abetted by the integrated design and technologies, including Vibram, Matryx, and the 80s inspired colorway. The shoe fits snugly and is ready »
  • RoadTrailRun : 88.5 / 100 — « Across our trail racing testing on trail, the Merrell MTL SpeedArc Peak handles pace changes effortlessly thanks to a locked-in midfoot wrap and 303 g build. Its upper lockdown and outsole durability on trail make it a standout contender at €400. »
  • RunRepeat : 86.6 / 100 — « Merrell has finally entered the trail super shoe race, and we think it made a strong first impression. We were impressed by the MATRYX upper, which delivers excellent breathability, while the Vibram Megagrip Elite outsole provides some of the best traction we've tested. In our experience, the shoe feels fun, nimble, and highly capable across a wide range of trails. We found in the lab that weight and energy return still need work, but Merrell finally has a serious performance trail racer worth considering. »

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