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Reddit Reviews
I’m hesitant to give specific shoe advice because feet are so different and you might have to experiment and make sure you buy through REI or somewhere similar where you can return used shoes. I love my Merrell Nova 2 in a wide width so much I ordered a backup pair from eBay for when these wear out - still going strong. If you’re not using trekking poles, they have helped me a lot, especially on downhills.
I just started wearing the Merrell Nova and the Merrell Agility Peak. In my opinion the Nova are way more comfortable and the grip is great. Dont bother spending more money on the Agility Peak. They arent as comfortable and the grip is the same.
I love the Merrell Nova! They are such great shoes. Did my 50k in them.
I really like them. I tried the Hokas before as well, but I would rather take the Merrells. And honestly, for the longer runs I like the Novas better than the Agility Peak or whatever they are called from Merrell, even though the Novas are cheaper. They are much more comfortable.
I get it. I've tried a bunch of shoes. Find a mid priced shoe that is comfortable and wear them out. I have found Merrell Novas and Altra Lone Peaks to be pretty comfortable. Looks for last seasons color ways and you can find them on discount. I am wearing a pair of Danner 2650's right now and they have been the best so far but they are pricey. You can find them new on Ebay and Poshmark for a pretty good discount, though.
I have flat, wide feet that are pretty sensitive and it is hard to find shoes so I've tried a bunch. Altra Lone Peaks have a really wide toe box and they were pretty comfortable. Wide width Merrell Novas were really comfortable as well. The bottom line is durability though. I have just come to accept that I will get about 6 months out of a pair of disc golf shoes. I play 3-5 time a week and there just isn't a shoe on the market that will hold up to it. You will get people on Reddit saying they get years out of shoes but I suspect they aren't playing as often as they say they are.
Merrell Nova's are pretty good and waterproof. I have 2 pairs. I don't think I can go back to non zero drop shoes after wearing Altra lonepeak 9+'s.
Over the years I’ve worn trail runners from Merrill and Salomon, or standard running shoes from Nike and NB. A comfortable fit was the main criteria. Even on wet ground I’d rather have fast drying sneakers than boots.
Just came back from Val Gardena area (Col Rodella/Antermoia/Vajolet Towers). I used my Merrill Trail runners but packed a pair of black Rothy Mary Janes for pre and post in Munich and Innsbruck. They pack up flat, go anywhere and are comfy for walking. Highly recommend if it's not too late!
End of reviews
Rankings by Use Case
Top recommendations from others in the same boat
Best for Deep mud and soft ground

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Salomon - Speedcross Series
Best for Quick draining and drying for wet trails

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Hoka - Speedgoat Series
Best for Road-to-trail transitions

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Nike - Pegasus Trail Series
Best for Steep technical descents

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Salomon - Genesis Series
Best for Technical rocky terrain

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La Sportiva - Prodigio Series
Best for Ultra-marathon racing

Top pick
La Sportiva - Prodigio Series





