Merrell Nova 2

Running these analyses costs money. Buy through my links to help keep lights on! I may get a small commission.

Overall

#466 in

Trail Running Shoes

according to Reddit Icon Reddit

Sentiment score50% positive
1
1
0
Last updated: May 10, 2026

Reddit Reviews

Reddit Iconblakeritchen
10 months ago

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.

Reddit IconinoffensiveLlama
11 months ago

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.

6 months ago

I love the Merrell Nova! They are such great shoes. Did my 50k in them.

6 months ago

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.

Reddit Iconkeyak
6 months ago

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.

6 months ago

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.

Reddit Iconmdskizy
6 months ago

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.

Reddit IconCold_Art5051
12 months ago

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.

Reddit IconOrnery_Alps7738
8 months ago

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

Other Reddit Recommendations: