Boosted hiking shoe with nitro is like a suspension for your foot

Merrell has an extensive range of hiking shoes and boots, making it worth taking notice when they introduce something that disrupts the market and reinvents sole construction. The SpeedArc Surge Boa features a unique nitrogen-injected coiled midsole for high-performance rebound and energy return, along with a dual-Boa system for precise zonal fit.

Merrell’s inspiration for the SpeedArc came from an off-road vehicle suspension system, translating into a two-part foam construction that offers both shock absorption and energy-boosting rebound. The standout feature is the “active response coils” in the midsole, providing a softer contact and more effortless lift with each stride.

“We’ve purposefully built the SpeedArc Surge Boa to return every ounce of energy you put in, taking each stride and propelling it forward,” explains Merrell design director Ian Cobb. The shoe promises double the energy return from independent lab tests, offering comfort and cushioning with each step for a limitless motion experience. The coils in the midsole aim for a softer landing and enhanced lift.

The shoe incorporates a dual-Boa system for a personalized fit, allowing for separate adjustments in different zones of the shoe. This design feature enhances comfort and security while providing easy trail adjustments.

The SpeedArc Surge Boa, or “Coiler” as we might call it, offers a dual-Boa system for a more customized fit. This system allows for separate adjustments in different zones for enhanced comfort and security. The dual dials make it easy to fine-tune the fit on the trail.

With a promise of a snug, uniform fit and easier trail adjustments, the dual-Boa system in the SpeedArc Surge Boa aims to provide a comfortable and secure fit, addressing common issues with single-dial systems. The convenience of adjusting the fit with just a few clicks adds to the appeal of this innovative shoe.

The SpeedArc Surge Boa offers innovative technology and a comfortable fit, but at a $290 price point, its value is still uncertain. As a limited release for now, it has sparked curiosity and may be worth testing once it becomes more widely available.

Source: Merrell