New perk! Get after it with local recommendations just for you. Discover nearby events, routes out your door, and hidden gems when you sign up for the Local Running Drop.
Editor’s Choice: Best Hybrid
$120/$100, 8.5 ounces, www.merrell.com
“Free of all the bells and whistles,” the Mix Master Aeroblock is simply a solid all-around shoe. It features a four-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, firm cushioning and a flexible mid-sole.
The upper features a closed-mesh lining (Aeroblock), designed to keep feet dry and comfortable in cool conditions, and is coated with a dirt- and water-resistant coating (EZ Clean) that repels moisture and makes the shoes easy to clean.
A forefoot “shock plate” disperses impact pressures and an antimicrobial footbed helps keep feet stink-free.
Traction: Small, rounded lugs are fine on smooth, groomed surfaces but are no match for slippery mud or rock-laden trails.
Best For: The shoe provided testers with adequate rock protection—except in the heel area—while maintaining a smooth, road-shoe feel on pavement. According to one tester, “It’s just the right balance of protection and race-day performance.” The water-resistant upper worked well in wet, muddy conditions but did not drain well.
The Fit: The Mixmaster runs almost a half size long and has a wide toe box. It best fits a medium- to high-volume foot.Testers lauded the easy-cinching lacing system and secure heel fit.
Drawbacks: After just three weeks of mid-range mileage (three to five miles a day), several testers noted premature tread wear.
Tester-Monial: “Merrell did a great job creating a hybrid shoe. The Mix Master is just aggressive enough that I felt sure-footed on trails while still comfortable on paved surfaces.”
–Brad Williams, Boulder, CO