Review: Merrell ProMorph

I'm hard on shoes, especially the ones I actually like. I guess that is how I show it. The Merrell ProMorph feels like the middle child. It gets less attention than it deserves, but quietly performs in just about any condition you throw at it.

This has been my pick of the quiver for the last four weeks. Trail runs, gym sessions, walking around town, it just keeps showing up. Cushioned enough to take the edge off pavement, but still responsive and stable.

Underfoot, the Vibram outsole does a lot of the heavy lifting. It grips well on dirt, gravel, and mixed terrain, but does not feel overbuilt or clunky on the pavement. It is also just a good-looking shoe. Clean, understated, and versatile enough to not feel out of place anywhere.

I'll ride 'em hard this summer and they will serve well in the gym after their useful life on the trail. One day I will retire them to pasture, and when I do, I'll replace them with another Merrell shoe.

Available at merrell.com; $160.