Last updated at 03/12/2025 17:39:50
originally posted on merrell.com
I have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is ... MoreI have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is always a plus, and the lug pattern works very well in mud.The Bad: The heel pocket seems too wide compared with the rest of the shoe. Even with a heel lock, it feels like I’m sort of floating in the heel. Lift isn’t the issue, but rather it’s a lack of lateral security. This is compounded by another issue, the narrow footprint of the shoe at ground level, particularly in the heel. I feel as though a few more millimeters of width in the heel where it hits the ground could make the aft part of the shoe feel more stable. I definitely feel more stable staying up toward the front of the shoe. If I get back on the heel, particularly in technical sections, it gets a little squirrelly. While the outsole is plenty grippy, the long, widely spaced lugs do mean less rubber meets the terrain on stuff like wet roots, so there are some limitations compared to a less aggressive lug pattern. Also, the front of the shoe could be a little more breathable, but YMMV.Overall this is a solid shoe that moves along very well. I am definitely enjoying them and still am figuring them out for my applications. The bad things I listed are in no way deal breakers, but I do feel a couple minor changes could make this shoe a true max cushion technical terrain beast. As it is, you can cruise up to moderate terrain for hours in total comfort.
originally posted on merrell.com
I was fortunate enough to join my first ever trail run and we got to demo these. They felt great on, lightweight and bouncy, with plenty of grip on the bottom, which as a novice, I was very grateful for. However, the ground was wet, which proved to be the perfect environment for an intensely comical adventure. As we started our first incline, the secret mud magnets were activated and each sneaker accumulated 10lbs of resistance. I imagine Merrell engineered this feature to help you achieve superhero status in trail running. Being a beginner, I got to watch all the pros ahead of me trek up the mountain in what eventually turned into snow shoes. I laughed so hard I couldn't move, which was good because I needed to tighten my laces to keep them from becoming one with ... MoreI was fortunate enough to join my first ever trail run and we got to demo these. They felt great on, lightweight and bouncy, with plenty of grip on the bottom, which as a novice, I was very grateful for. However, the ground was wet, which proved to be the perfect environment for an intensely comical adventure. As we started our first incline, the secret mud magnets were activated and each sneaker accumulated 10lbs of resistance. I imagine Merrell engineered this feature to help you achieve superhero status in trail running. Being a beginner, I got to watch all the pros ahead of me trek up the mountain in what eventually turned into snow shoes. I laughed so hard I couldn't move, which was good because I needed to tighten my laces to keep them from becoming one with the earth. As the adventure continued, we encountered lots of little creeks we had to pass which was fun because these sneakers are perforated at the toe so soggy socks initiated! Once we completed the run we had to use firehose grade water pressure to remove the mud but they did rinse nicely. Such a fun experience and honestly, the grip gave me the confidence to tackle whatever terrain we encountered. Thanks Merrell! Pro tip (beginner): bring extra socks!
originally posted on merrell.com
Right out of the box the Agility Peak 5 is comfortable and lightweight. First run was a 17 miler on dirt forest roads and single track with roots. Traction is superb, even in wet sloppy terrain. There a little things about this shoe that I love, including the flexible wrap around in the midfoot region - this contributes to a wonderful fit and a secure feeling that provides confidence on gnarly terrain. What surprised me most is that when I had to cross paved roads, the shoe felt really well cushioned even on the pavement. There is an elastic shoe lace holder - something simple - but it keeps the laces out the way and prevents them from becoming untied. The ride is remarkably stable but I still have adequate proprioception - something critical for an elite trail ... MoreRight out of the box the Agility Peak 5 is comfortable and lightweight. First run was a 17 miler on dirt forest roads and single track with roots. Traction is superb, even in wet sloppy terrain. There a little things about this shoe that I love, including the flexible wrap around in the midfoot region - this contributes to a wonderful fit and a secure feeling that provides confidence on gnarly terrain. What surprised me most is that when I had to cross paved roads, the shoe felt really well cushioned even on the pavement. There is an elastic shoe lace holder - something simple - but it keeps the laces out the way and prevents them from becoming untied. The ride is remarkably stable but I still have adequate proprioception - something critical for an elite trail shoe. This shoe is under marketed - it is far better than the best selling Hoka Speedgoat - and more versatile.
I have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is ... MoreI have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is always a plus, and the lug pattern works very well in mud.The Bad: The heel pocket seems too wide compared with the rest of the shoe. Even with a heel lock, it feels like I’m sort of floating in the heel. Lift isn’t the issue, but rather it’s a lack of lateral security. This is compounded by another issue, the narrow footprint of the shoe at ground level, particularly in the heel. I feel as though a few more millimeters of width in the heel where it hits the ground could make the aft part of the shoe feel more stable. I definitely feel more stable staying up toward the front of the shoe. If I get back on the heel, particularly in technical sections, it gets a little squirrelly. While the outsole is plenty grippy, the long, widely spaced lugs do mean less rubber meets the terrain on stuff like wet roots, so there are some limitations compared to a less aggressive lug pattern. Also, the front of the shoe could be a little more breathable, but YMMV.Overall this is a solid shoe that moves along very well. I am definitely enjoying them and still am figuring them out for my applications. The bad things I listed are in no way deal breakers, but I do feel a couple minor changes could make this shoe a true max cushion technical terrain beast. As it is, you can cruise up to moderate terrain for hours in total comfort.
I was fortunate enough to join my first ever trail run and we got to demo these. They felt great on, lightweight and bouncy, with plenty of grip on the bottom, which as a novice, I was very grateful for. However, the ground was wet, which proved to be the perfect environment for an intensely comical adventure. As we started our first incline, the secret mud magnets were activated and each sneaker accumulated 10lbs of resistance. I imagine Merrell engineered this feature to help you achieve superhero status in trail running. Being a beginner, I got to watch all the pros ahead of me trek up the mountain in what eventually turned into snow shoes. I laughed so hard I couldn't move, which was good because I needed to tighten my laces to keep them from becoming one with ... MoreI was fortunate enough to join my first ever trail run and we got to demo these. They felt great on, lightweight and bouncy, with plenty of grip on the bottom, which as a novice, I was very grateful for. However, the ground was wet, which proved to be the perfect environment for an intensely comical adventure. As we started our first incline, the secret mud magnets were activated and each sneaker accumulated 10lbs of resistance. I imagine Merrell engineered this feature to help you achieve superhero status in trail running. Being a beginner, I got to watch all the pros ahead of me trek up the mountain in what eventually turned into snow shoes. I laughed so hard I couldn't move, which was good because I needed to tighten my laces to keep them from becoming one with the earth. As the adventure continued, we encountered lots of little creeks we had to pass which was fun because these sneakers are perforated at the toe so soggy socks initiated! Once we completed the run we had to use firehose grade water pressure to remove the mud but they did rinse nicely. Such a fun experience and honestly, the grip gave me the confidence to tackle whatever terrain we encountered. Thanks Merrell! Pro tip (beginner): bring extra socks!
Right out of the box the Agility Peak 5 is comfortable and lightweight. First run was a 17 miler on dirt forest roads and single track with roots. Traction is superb, even in wet sloppy terrain. There a little things about this shoe that I love, including the flexible wrap around in the midfoot region - this contributes to a wonderful fit and a secure feeling that provides confidence on gnarly terrain. What surprised me most is that when I had to cross paved roads, the shoe felt really well cushioned even on the pavement. There is an elastic shoe lace holder - something simple - but it keeps the laces out the way and prevents them from becoming untied. The ride is remarkably stable but I still have adequate proprioception - something critical for an elite trail ... MoreRight out of the box the Agility Peak 5 is comfortable and lightweight. First run was a 17 miler on dirt forest roads and single track with roots. Traction is superb, even in wet sloppy terrain. There a little things about this shoe that I love, including the flexible wrap around in the midfoot region - this contributes to a wonderful fit and a secure feeling that provides confidence on gnarly terrain. What surprised me most is that when I had to cross paved roads, the shoe felt really well cushioned even on the pavement. There is an elastic shoe lace holder - something simple - but it keeps the laces out the way and prevents them from becoming untied. The ride is remarkably stable but I still have adequate proprioception - something critical for an elite trail shoe. This shoe is under marketed - it is far better than the best selling Hoka Speedgoat - and more versatile.
I got this to replace a Saucony Xodus Ultra 2 as my long distance shoe. I live in Colorado and run a variety of trails including off trail excursions in the mountains. This shoe is very good but falls short in a few key areas.PROS:-midsole. Really nice balance of cushion and protection (with rock plate) while not feeling too clunky/sticky and having some decent trail feel and response.-outsole. Can’t beat it. The lug design and Vibram megagrip put Saucony’s outsole compound to shame. Nice to feel so secure and confident on any terrain-upper comfort. The upper feels durable and supportive and also drains water very well. I was ankle deep in water and I was impressed with how quickly water drained out of the shoe. I think this also translates to good ... MoreI got this to replace a Saucony Xodus Ultra 2 as my long distance shoe. I live in Colorado and run a variety of trails including off trail excursions in the mountains. This shoe is very good but falls short in a few key areas.PROS:-midsole. Really nice balance of cushion and protection (with rock plate) while not feeling too clunky/sticky and having some decent trail feel and response.-outsole. Can’t beat it. The lug design and Vibram megagrip put Saucony’s outsole compound to shame. Nice to feel so secure and confident on any terrain-upper comfort. The upper feels durable and supportive and also drains water very well. I was ankle deep in water and I was impressed with how quickly water drained out of the shoe. I think this also translates to good breathability-performance. This is an ultra distance shoe that feels nimble and secure in technical terrain. Merrell is really threading a vital needle here.. almostCONS-lockdown/fit: as many “industry” reviewers have noted, the fit is a touch sloppy in the heel, and for me, midfoot, which leads to challenges with lock down. It can be workable with lace tightening but I’m always getting mild lace bite. Ive always had hot spots and blisters forming which I’ve never had with a Saucony shoe. Though for me, this issue is not nearly as bad as it was in the Speedgoat 5 for me .-ankle collar comfort. The ankle collar feels a bit rough and firm which leaves my ankles, especially ankle bones, feeling a bit beat up. I don’t know if the ankle collar rides a touch high, but and trail surfaces that are not flat, and especially side-hilling, the ankle collar really digs into my ankle bone. In comparison, I love the feel of the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx ankle.I really like this shoe and want to love it, but some of the comfort issues will limits its use for me. Comparing to the Xodus Ultra 2, the Agility Peak 5 surely wins in the outsole and durability departments—which is a liability for big mountain work. But the AP5 fails in the comfort area, especially in uneven/sidehill terrain, which is a liability in big mountain terrain.I hope to get great use out of this shoe but sadly im not sure it will accompany me on long days in rugged mountain terrain. I hope the eventual AP6 might
Fantastic shoe right out of the box. Much like a pair of Hoka Speedgoat 3's I ran in 5 years ago these have been a delight. Having run about 400k in them to this point they're still my go to for comfort and confidence in rugged terrain for long days. The upper has held up well while bombing through mountain scree and talus and the Vibram mega grip is a no brainer. Fantastic traction, and so far great durability in the sole. My only knock on the Agility Peak 5 would be midsole, more specifically the outside edges of it. The shoes still have wonderful cushioning at 400k, but the scree and rocks are doing a number on the exterior edges of the foam. Lastly, I haven't experienced the heal slippage as other reviewers, even though I size my shoes with a full thumbs width ... MoreFantastic shoe right out of the box. Much like a pair of Hoka Speedgoat 3's I ran in 5 years ago these have been a delight. Having run about 400k in them to this point they're still my go to for comfort and confidence in rugged terrain for long days. The upper has held up well while bombing through mountain scree and talus and the Vibram mega grip is a no brainer. Fantastic traction, and so far great durability in the sole. My only knock on the Agility Peak 5 would be midsole, more specifically the outside edges of it. The shoes still have wonderful cushioning at 400k, but the scree and rocks are doing a number on the exterior edges of the foam. Lastly, I haven't experienced the heal slippage as other reviewers, even though I size my shoes with a full thumbs width in front of my big toe, but I always finish my laces off with a runners loop and utilize the extra lace hole at the top.
These fit true to size. I like that the Agility Peak are a bit wider than the Saucony Xodus. The Vibram outsole has fantastic traction on dry and wet rocks. I’ve worn these on trail runs, a 12-hour adventure race, and canyoning. The foam is responsive and returns energy to your stride, unlike some other shoes that have “smooshy” foam that feel like you’re sinking into mud with every stride. The midsole is protective and saves your feet from rocks and roots. The only downside is that they don’t drain well and take a while to dry. If you’re running through puddles, streams, or rivers, you’ll likely have wet feet until you change shoes. These are fantastic shoes for dry pursuits. A bit of a shame because the Vibram sole is so awesome on wet stuff.
Bought these for long trail runs in the Perth hills and the occasional ultra event. These shoes nice and light with a reasonable amount of cushion for longer efforts. Unlike many well cushioned trail shoes which can feel quite dead, and even a bit tippy over technical ground, Merrell have somehow managed to also dial in a surprising amount of ground feel, especially on loose pea gravels of the Perth Hills. The shoes have great feedback and provide a lot of confidence under foot. No doubt this is in part due to the grippy Vibram 5mm lugs, which provide secure grip on both hard and soft surfaces, especially in the current wet WA winter weather. In my view the real trick with these shoes is in the noticeably narrower sole footprint, which allows you to select your foot ... MoreBought these for long trail runs in the Perth hills and the occasional ultra event. These shoes nice and light with a reasonable amount of cushion for longer efforts. Unlike many well cushioned trail shoes which can feel quite dead, and even a bit tippy over technical ground, Merrell have somehow managed to also dial in a surprising amount of ground feel, especially on loose pea gravels of the Perth Hills. The shoes have great feedback and provide a lot of confidence under foot. No doubt this is in part due to the grippy Vibram 5mm lugs, which provide secure grip on both hard and soft surfaces, especially in the current wet WA winter weather. In my view the real trick with these shoes is in the noticeably narrower sole footprint, which allows you to select your foot placement with more precision over rock gardens and rutted out gullies. The shoes run a nice sock like fit to the upper, which also helps with the ground feel, but do run about a 1/2 size small on my foot. (I'm usually 9.5 Regular fit but size up to 10 with these). Its been fairly wet of late out on the trails and these shoes have kept my feet dry through most puddles and mud patches in all but the heaviest of downpours, even without a gortex liner. Remains to be seen if they run hot in the summer, but they are snug on cold winter's days. What amazes me most is these are quality trail shoes with a premium feel, yet sell for $100 less than many of the other premium brands. My favourite shoes for long efforts on single track trails around Perth.
To start with, the traction on these is absolutely world class. It's as good as you're likely to find on any trail shoe at any price from any manufacturer. And there are other really nice features as well, such as the gaiter attachments and the lace loops, which are fabulous at keeping them from coming untied. My feet are on the wide side of average and the fit is comfortably snug. The lockdown is good enough that I don't smash my toes into the front of the toe boxes on the descents, which is a problem I have in a lot of other shoes. In general, they perform above expectations.I have exactly two gripes with them that keeps me from giving them 5 stars. The first is that the lace design makes it easy to get an uncomfortable tight spot right at the top. As such, I ... MoreTo start with, the traction on these is absolutely world class. It's as good as you're likely to find on any trail shoe at any price from any manufacturer. And there are other really nice features as well, such as the gaiter attachments and the lace loops, which are fabulous at keeping them from coming untied. My feet are on the wide side of average and the fit is comfortably snug. The lockdown is good enough that I don't smash my toes into the front of the toe boxes on the descents, which is a problem I have in a lot of other shoes. In general, they perform above expectations.I have exactly two gripes with them that keeps me from giving them 5 stars. The first is that the lace design makes it easy to get an uncomfortable tight spot right at the top. As such, I find that I have to retie them two or three times whenever I put them on. The second is that the firm midsole, relatively high stack, and relatively narrow profile makes it super easy to roll an ankle if you're not paying attention. Neither of these are deal breakers.Anyway, I'm super happy with them and will be ordering more as soon as I wear these out.
Bought for serious trail running but other chronic injuries have precluded too many miles there… for the moment…but I have worn them for hiking many, many miles, outdoor cycling, walking for days on trips, a couple of indoor/outdoor workouts, some shorter (3-5 mile easier trail runs) and they are my favorite running shoes of all time.I have higher arches that always require a custom orthotic-not needed for these. Narrow heel, narrower than average, low volume feet just love these shoes. Grip has been excellent on every type of terrain but haven’t tried snow. LOL. So stable, excellent cushion while still providing firm support. I was worried the thin tongue would bother my low volume feet but nope, with decent hiking or running socks they are totally fine. Now I ... MoreBought for serious trail running but other chronic injuries have precluded too many miles there… for the moment…but I have worn them for hiking many, many miles, outdoor cycling, walking for days on trips, a couple of indoor/outdoor workouts, some shorter (3-5 mile easier trail runs) and they are my favorite running shoes of all time.I have higher arches that always require a custom orthotic-not needed for these. Narrow heel, narrower than average, low volume feet just love these shoes. Grip has been excellent on every type of terrain but haven’t tried snow. LOL. So stable, excellent cushion while still providing firm support. I was worried the thin tongue would bother my low volume feet but nope, with decent hiking or running socks they are totally fine. Now I must decide-buy a back up pair or see if somehow the next version is even better? Merrell for hiking boots, trail runners, and hiking sandals. One of my absolute favorite brands for my goofy feet. Comfort and fit are my primary concerns these days but hey, they also look very cool.
I got turned on by these shoes from a youtuber who does ultras. I've worn Brooks Cascadia's for many years and thought I'd give them a try. Obvious when reviewing, we're looking at cost vs. quality, and this shoe is coming in fairly pricey compared to a lot of well established trail shoes, so that factors into the review.They aren't necessarily terrible shoes but they're far off from a quality ultra shoe at this price range and need some more development. Initial thoughts on the first run:The sole is quite narrow compare to a lot of other trail shoes. Right away, you'll notice that 1/3 of your arch is over the sole leading to a very unstable ground strike, especially in technical trails. The lugs are quite poorly designed, however I must advise that I wear a size ... MoreI got turned on by these shoes from a youtuber who does ultras. I've worn Brooks Cascadia's for many years and thought I'd give them a try. Obvious when reviewing, we're looking at cost vs. quality, and this shoe is coming in fairly pricey compared to a lot of well established trail shoes, so that factors into the review.They aren't necessarily terrible shoes but they're far off from a quality ultra shoe at this price range and need some more development. Initial thoughts on the first run:The sole is quite narrow compare to a lot of other trail shoes. Right away, you'll notice that 1/3 of your arch is over the sole leading to a very unstable ground strike, especially in technical trails. The lugs are quite poorly designed, however I must advise that I wear a size 14, so its possible that not much thought has gone into scaling up the lugs to such a large sole. The lugs are quite slippery on asphalt when wet, secondly when you step on the outer part of the sole (for example technical rock section) the lugs and padding give away and almost feel like they launch your foot. It was quite uneasy traversing technical rocks on the run.The main padding is directly under the heel and arch and give away quite quickly towards the toe. They feel a bit like wearing those stretchers fit shoes. As a mid foot strike, I was constantly fighting the shoe not to roll left or right on me. I've always had a neutral strike, and if you don't strike perfect, the shoe feels like it will launch your foot in that direction.The top part felt good and the heel was alright. Again, its a bit loose, and undersigned; something I expect from a 100.00 trail trainer (tier B shoe).If you like Merrell fitting shoes, and need a hiking, casual knock around shoe, they'll work. As a Ultra trail running shoe for 150.00, I can't recommend them. There are a lot of better, stable shoes on the market.
The Merrell Agility Peak 5 redefines trail running, offering unparalleled performance for long distances. Engineered with 31mm of FloatPro Foam within its midsole and a rocker sole geometry, this shoe ensures exceptional cushioning and agility throughout every kilometer of your run. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole provides reliable traction and stability, enabling you to conquer challenging terrains with confidence and protection. Whether navigating rocky paths or rugged landscapes, the Merrell Agility Peak 5 is designed to elevate your running experience to new heights.
The Merrell Agility Peak 5 redefines trail running, offering unparalleled performance for long distances. Engineered with 31mm of FloatPro Foam within its midsole and a rocker sole geometry, this shoe ensures exceptional cushioning and agility throughout every kilometer of your run. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole provides reliable traction and stability, enabling you to conquer challenging terrains with confidence and protection. Whether navigating rocky paths or rugged landscapes, the Merrell Agility Peak 5 is designed to elevate your running experience to new heights.
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The lowest price for Merrell Agility Peak 5 right now is $169.95.
Prices last updated 3 Dec 2025.
Merrell Agility Peak 5
The Merrell Agility Peak 5 redefines trail running, offering unparalleled performance for long distances. Engineered with 31mm of FloatPro Foam within its midsole and a rocker sole geometry, this shoe ensures exceptional cushioning and agility throughout every kilometer of your run. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole provides reliable traction and stability, enabling you to conquer challenging terrains with confidence and protection. Whether navigating rocky paths or rugged landscapes, the Merrell Agility Peak 5 is designed to elevate your running experience to new heights.
The Merrell Agility Peak 5 redefines trail running, offering unparalleled performance for long distances. Engineered with 31mm of FloatPro Foam within its midsole and a rocker sole geometry, this shoe ensures exceptional cushioning and agility throughout every kilometer of your run. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole provides reliable traction and stability, enabling you to conquer challenging terrains with confidence and protection. Whether navigating rocky paths or rugged landscapes, the Merrell Agility Peak 5 is designed to elevate your running experience to new heights.
