More 2011 product news, this time from Merrell and, in particular, a radical new range of minimalist, 'barefoot' walking shoes.
Refuge Range
First though, there's the chunky-looking new Refuge range of shoes and mids, which includes the Refuge Pro Ventilator and Pro Ventilator GTX for next spring, but launches this autumn in full grain leather form.
What marks the range out is the use of what Merrell calls 'Split Technology' where – and we quote – a dual density EVA rubber wedge underneath the heel is joined diagonally to form a 'smooth, impact-absorbing shock pod that discourages the common tendency to roll the foot (over-pronate) when walking'.
It's a neater-looking variation on existing variable density foam heel units. The 2011 models have fabric venting uppers along with Gore-Tex liners and Vibram outsole units.
Avian Light For Women
Also new for next spring is the women's-specific Avian Light range of shoes aimed unashamedly at a younger age group and approximately 20% lighter than, say, the existing Siren range.
The key feature is something called Q-Form Comfort design which is a contoured EVA mid-sole with three degrees of firmness designed to 'ensure proper support and re-directing of a woman's stride' it says here, taking into account the more pronounced angle between women's hip and knees relative to men.
Merrell Barefoot
We've saved the most interesting development till last, Merrell is launching a range of minimalist outdoor shoes called 'Barefoot' which they've developed in partnership with Vibram.
There are six models in the range – priced between £80 and £90 – all of which use the same Vibram sole unit with minimal support and cushioning. The theory, based on bare-foot running, is that removing cushioning and stiffening allows the foot to move more naturally and encourages forefoot striking rather than heel landing, which is only possible because of mid-sole cushioning.
Merrell says that the result is lower impact and a more efficient and aligned gait plus stimulated muscles increasing core strength, improving ability and building 'the body's ability to burn more calories'.
It's interesting stuff and the first barefoot shoes we've seen designed for general outdoors walking rather running. Intriguingly, the other advocate of minimal, barefoot footwear at the show was inov-8, arguably about as far away from Merrell as you can get.
One a niche off-road running brand, the other a mainstream, general outdoors footwear manufacturer, but both with barefoot options – inov-8 picked up and award for their off-road version.
All the above available from early 2011. We're fascinated by the barefoot stuff and really looking forward to giving it a go.
More information on the current Merrell range at www.merrell.com.
