Issues with New Merrells for First Long Hike

[Former member 99816]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

 

[wayfarer]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

Can you exchange them? If you can have a look at Keen's.

 

[Former member 99816]

I got them at Whole Earth. Next week I'll go back and see what might fit better. This time I'll test walk them on the sidewalk outside, if possible.

 

[Saint Mike II]

Hola @puttster comfortable and usable footwear is, I believe, the crucial aspect of camino preparation. If the new shoes/boots are uncomfortable/hurting on your lounge room floor then I hate to think what they will be like on day 5 or day 8 on the Camino. I recommend you return them. Come back to the store in the afternoon after a day or walking around; if you are a two-sock walker then bring along your thin and thick socks; remember to try on BOTH shoes; examine the inner sole, if its tissue thin then consider acquiring after-sale thicker ones. Lastly, but by no means least put on your new shoes/boots, pack you backpack with around 10kg and do a number of training walks. This should give you and your feet a chance to aclimatise. Buen Camino.

 

[C clearly]

I try shoes in the store at the end of a day. If they pass that test, I confirm the return policy. Then I take them to a shopping mall (for the indoor floor surface), put them on (leaving any tags in place) and walk briskly around for 20 minutes. Try again with different socks if necessary. Do this again the next day if you are still unsure. (All of this would not be so effectively done by stepping outside the store to the sidewalk - too much pressure from the sales clerk. In a shopping mall you can relax, stride fast and slow, and take your time, making adjustments, re-lacing, changing shoes, etc.) If there are ANY issues, they fail the test, and are returned to the store.

By the way, don't be surprised that shoes come in only one width. That is probably true for most shoes.

 

[trecile]

I try shoes in the store at the end of a day. If they pass that test, I confirm the return policy. Then I take them to a shopping mall (for the indoor floor surface), put them on (leaving any tags in place) and walk briskly around for 20 minutes. Try again with different socks if necessary. Do this again the next day if you are still unsure. (All of this would not be so effectively done by stepping outside the store to the sidewalk - too much pressure from the sales clerk. In a shopping mall you can relax, stride fast and slow, and take your time, making adjustments, re-lacing, changing shoes, etc.) If there are ANY issues, they fail the test, and are returned to the store.

By the way, don't be surprised that shoes come in only one width. That is probably true for most shoes.

And it might be a good idea to wear them with a fully loaded backpack on, because the added weight can change your foot and gait.

 

[FLEUR]

Try Meindl....
My feet love these after trying many other good makes.

 

[Walter James Palmer]

The sage advice I was given was a true blessing. Just get the most comfortable shoes you have - even if they are your old tennis shoes.

My ancient tennis shoes remained cool and comfortable the whole way. Never gave a thought to blisters or discomfort - which is good, because it's a pilgrimage, a chance to think about important stuff.

The old pilgrims had far worse footwear. Far, far worse, or none at all. If you are lucky, you will come across a barefooted pilgrim. If so, it is a chance to pause and reflect.

Comfortable shoes and socks. No need to be too extravagant. Ankle support OR walking sticks. BTW, my advice came from a pilgrim that worked at REI.

Been Camino!

 

[CarolamS]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

I have had 3 pairs of Merrell Flex MQM and loved them. I bought a new pair and they have changed the last! Too long and narrow for me now. So annoying. However I discovered that Altra Lone Peak now come in regular or wide fittings and the wide are perfect for me.

Take all the time you can over this because getting the shoes that are right for your feet is the most important preparation you can do. We are all different.

BTW many Keen ladies shoes are no longer wide so never assume a make which traditionally was the right fit will always be the right fit.

Good luck and Buen Camino

 

[Sweetbaboo]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

I've done two Caminos with Merrells (not flex as I have foot issue with flexible soles) and have had no problems. I trained with one pair of Merrells that I bought online and after one small hike (4miles), I could tell they did not fit correctly. I then returned them and got a pair that did fit better. It was all good.
The comfort of your feet is one of the most important aspects of this walk. If you are noticing these problems now times it by ten when you really start on the Camino. Good luck. I know you will find the best shoe for you. Could be Merrells , could be Keenes

 

[CaptBuddy]

I've worn Merrell Moab shoes and boots for years. Including two blister free Caminos. If you return the Flex Fit, try the Moab.
That said, I love the Keens, and I would have them in a heartbeat, but my heels are too narrow for the Keens, and they will not work for me. My wife has the Keens and loves them.
Everyone, and every foot is different. If you have the least doubt take care of it before you go.
Buen Camino

 

[dfox]

I've worn Merrell Moab shoes and boots for years. Including two blister free Caminos. If you return the Flex Fit, try the Moab.

Moab = mother of all boots as I learned it somewhere.

I had it, together with "double-socks" and "vaseline feet nightly", for my CF and CP journeys in April and May respectively without any issues.

 

[trecile]

Moab = mother of all boots as I learned it somewhere.

Clever, but I think that they were named for Moab, Utah.

Moab Utah | Stay in Moab and discover Arches

Moab, Utah information for planning your visit. Including Moab lodging, biking trails, camping, things to do, national parks, river rafting, and more.

utah.com

 

[cbacino]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

Different arches may feel uncomfortable at first and take time (a week?) for your foot and leg to accustom to. If your fit feels sloppy now, it will only get worse with wear. I had this problem with Merrills on the Appalachian Trail. Sloppy will lead to blisters. Yes, feet get bigger; mine have after 6000 miles of long-distance hiking. I used to wear New Balance because they make wide shoes (EEEE). I switched to Keen Newport H2 - all synthetic, dry super fast after getting wet.

 

[darealdeal77]

Hi I have an opinion! from someone who has foot issues. For me hiking, walking whether on Camino, the Appalachian Trail or any other trail has been a test. I have a knee replacement, a limp and I suffer from Newton’s neuroma! With that said I had tried many boots, and KEEN has hit the mark! When walking/hiking over 12 miles my feet get very swollen and the pressure begins. These are the 3 important things for a long hike like Camino: 1. buy a good shoe (KEEN) they are wide in the front, and my favorite, 2. change the inner sole the boot comes with to a “Superfeet “ (comes in different colors and styles) color/type according to foot, and 3. never tie your laces from the last bottom loop, skip one or two depending on your issue and start the laces up from there, this will allow the toe area to expand freely! Hope this helps, Buen Camino!!

 

[Felice]

I've made so many mistakes buying shoes that I am reluctant to buy new ones! I've found that no matter how much I wear the shoes around the house first, where they feel so comfortable, it's a different matter when I walk outside and down the gentle slope of the drive and along the street. Twice now I have known within 5 minutes of walking outside that the shoes are just not right.

With regards to your feet slopping around - with several pairs of shoes I have added an extra insole, consisting only of the front half, under the shoe's insole, which gives a better fit. Then after a few days of continuous walking when my feet have swollen somewhat, I can remove the insole to give me more room.

 

[C clearly]

All of these recommendations of specific shoe models are, to be frank, almost pointless. Don't bother trying a Brooks Ghost 13 just because they are the best fit for my feet. There are many manufacturers that make good shoes and you will recognize the names in the store. I recommend trying on as many pairs of shoes as you can until you find the one model and size that suits YOUR feet best. Then try that shoe in a size larger. If there is doubt about which size to buy, get the larger one. Then test walk in an indoor setting and return them if they aren't perfect.

 

[Walton]

Can I just add, that you should try walking up and down a slope.

The reason for walking on the upward slope is to see if your theels are slipping or if the back of the shoe slaps against your heels. When walking down the slope, you'd want to see if your toes are banging against the toe of your shoe. Heel slip and toe bang cause blisters and in the case of toebang, possible damage or loss of toenails.

Some specialty stores have slopes but they are not very long so maybe there is an escalator nearby to try out on?

If the Camino were flat, you wouldn't have to worry but at times it seems that you are walking uphill or downhill all day.

Dave Bugg has an excellent thread somewhere on this forum about shoes.

There is a lot more to the equation as others here have pointed out. You've got tying your laces, sock selection, foot preparation, airing your feet while resting, pack weight, pole use and so on. You've also got the sandals, versus runners, versus boots versus leather or synthetic endless discussions as well.

One thing that is certain and that is .........................

Happy feet = happy camino!

Cheers

Graham

 

[RJM]

There's no way you are going to know what's the right shoe and sock combination until you actually walk 10-20 kilometers in them while wearing a pack.
Do I recommend going through a dozen pairs of shoes before you walk the Camino? No. Is it fair to the shoe store you keep buying shoes and returning them because they don't feel right? No.
First time I walked the Camino was the first time I ever did walks that far for that many days. I didn't give footwear that much thought. I bought a pair of Merrell Moab's in my regular size, a bunch of thin synthetic running socks and off I went. I wore the Merrell's for a couple weeks prior. They felt fine. Only thing I changed was put more supportive insoles in them.

 

[C clearly]

I didn't give footwear that much thought. I bought a pair of Merrell Moab's in my regular size, a bunch of thin synthetic running socks and off I went. I wore the Merrell's for a couple weeks prior. They felt fine.

You are a fortunate pilgrim. My husband has no trouble grabbing a pair of shoes in a store. But I do. I would need to quit walking if I couldn't get the right shoes.

Do I recommend going through a dozen pairs of shoes before you walk the Camino? No. Is it fair to the shoe store you keep buying shoes and returning them because they don't feel right? No.

C'mon @RJM .

Usually it isn't necessary to try a dozen, but sometimes none of the shoes in a store are right. The shoe has to pass the first careful consideration in the store, and then on an indoor surface as usually specified by the store policy. We are not talking about a cavalier treatment of a store's return policies. We are talking about getting shoes that can be worn for the purpose without pain, and doing it in collaboration with the store.

Once I found the right shoe it became very easy for both me and the store. Over the last 3 years I have bought 6 pairs of the same model without needing much attention at all in the store.

P.S. We haven't had a good bedbug debate in a long time.

 

[Former member 99290]

P.S. We haven't had a good bedbug debate in a long time.

Where’s the ‘PLEASE NO’ emoji when you need it.

 

[Walton]

Yeah...let's have a bedbug debate!

To start the debate, answer the following question.

Would you prefer to be bitten by a bedbug or a vampire?

 

[winewalker3]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

I suggest going back and trying another pair of the same shoe. I have seen pairs out of a box that were not fitting the same. Not always necessary to change brands. Good luck

 

[Cicada]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

I'm surprised the sales assistant didn't advise you better. Especially your size selection ! Did they have a small incline for you to walk down? If you didn't perhaps when you return your shoes you should consider a shop that specialises in hiking equipment.

 

[C clearly]

To start the debate, answer the following question.

Would you prefer to be bitten by a bedbug or a vampire?

Not here on this shoe thread, please! If you insist, and if the word "vampires" is involved, please go to the Not-so-serious thread.

(I know! I started it. Mea culpa!)

 

[Anamiri]

I have had 3 pairs of Merrell Flex MQM and loved them. I bought a new pair and they have changed the last! Too long and narrow for me now. So annoying. However I discovered that Altra Lone Peak now come in regular or wide fittings and the wide are perfect for me.

Take all the time you can over this because getting the shoes that are right for your feet is the most important preparation you can do. We are all different.

BTW many Keen ladies shoes are no longer wide so never assume a make which traditionally was the right fit will always be the right fit.

Good luck and Buen Camino

Dont you hate it when your favorite brand decides to make an upgrade to a style, which means it no longer fits.

 

[FLEUR]

You are a fortunate pilgrim. My husband has no trouble grabbing a pair of shoes in a store. But I do. I would need to quit walking if I couldn't get the right shoes.

C'mon @RJM .

Usually it isn't necessary to try a dozen, but sometimes none of the shoes in a store are right. The shoe has to pass the first careful consideration in the store, and then on an indoor surface as usually specified by the store policy. We are not talking about a cavalier treatment of a store's return policies. We are talking about getting shoes that can be worn for the purpose without pain, and doing it in collaboration with the store.

Once I found the right shoe it became very easy for both me and the store. Over the last 3 years I have bought 6 pairs of the same model without needing much attention at all in the store.

P.S. We haven't had a good bedbug debate in a long time.

Bed bugs, they've all died of Covid

 

[Former member 49149]

Bed bugs, they've all died of Covid

I doubt it, FLEUR! However, back to shoes. This is like each and every question that invites opinion. There is no end to it!
My budget is not very elastic. I invest in shoes. And boots. I have come to the conclusion that the boots are the best. For me. The brand is the best. For me. I cannot afford to buy, discard, and buy again. I expect them to last at least two years. I walk in them at home and on camino. In the summer, sandals, in the rest of the year, the boots/shoes.
I do hate labels, really, as they confuse me. I am not too exigent, or consistent, but I think the word empirical has a place here. What works for you is what is good for you. Nothing I can say is your solution.
Muy buen camino, OP!

 

[Dave2525]

If they don't feel good in the store or at home, return them. I have massively wide feet and after trying on many different brands I settled on Merrell as they seemed best in the store. Not so much when I hit the trail.

After a while It was hard to tell where one blister ended and the others began. I persevered but still...

 

[RJM]

You are a fortunate pilgrim. My husband has no trouble grabbing a pair of shoes in a store. But I do. I would need to quit walking if I couldn't get the right shoes.

C'mon @RJM .

Usually it isn't necessary to try a dozen, but sometimes none of the shoes in a store are right. The shoe has to pass the first careful consideration in the store, and then on an indoor surface as usually specified by the store policy. We are not talking about a cavalier treatment of a store's return policies. We are talking about getting shoes that can be worn for the purpose without pain, and doing it in collaboration with the store.

Once I found the right shoe it became very easy for both me and the store. Over the last 3 years I have bought 6 pairs of the same model without needing much attention at all in the store.

P.S. We haven't had a good bedbug debate in a long time.

I personally would not feel right buying shoes, wearing them a bit at home and returning them for a full refund. What do they then do with the shoe? It's no longer new, it's used. You cannot sell it as new (that's fraudulent) and personally I would not want to pay full price for a pair of shoes or boots that someone purchased, brought home, mucked about in for a bit stepping on who knows what with them all the while their feet, which may or may not be hygienic, are tucked away inside and then the fickle buyer returns them to the store and they're put back on the shelf for some poor unsuspecting shmuck to buy thinking they are new.
I'd pay half price for sure for a pair of used footwear, but not full. Just like a car, they are no longer single owner lol.

 

[Former member 99816]

I went back to the store and tried several alternatives but really the Merrill Flex's felt the best so I decided to keep them. Then on to the golf course, 6 miles of grass & asphalt. The shoes felt great. Got them muddy and wet too, still felt great.
I think I was overly concerned about minutia from the fearmongering about how perfect they have to fit. Maybe the shoes (or my feet) adapted, IDK... long story short: I got this, time to move on to the 2nd most important item

 

[trecile]

I personally would not feel right buying shoes, wearing them a bit at home and returning them for a full refund. What do they then do with the shoe? It's no longer new, it's used.

It really depends on the return policy of the store. Most stores will only take shoes back in new and re-sellable condition. However, REI touts their 1 year return policy for items that "didn't work out." I believe that you need to be a member to take advantage of this policy. They then resell the items in their "garage sales." I'm sure that there is a limit to this policy if someone abuses it. And their prices can sometimes be higher, but the return policy makes up for that on items that I'm not sure about.

 

[Cicada]

I went back to the store and tried several alternatives but really the Merrill Flex's felt the best so I decided to keep them. Then on to the golf course, 6 miles of grass & asphalt. The shoes felt great. Got them muddy and wet too, still felt great.
I think I was overly concerned about minutia from the fearmongering about how perfect they have to fit. Maybe the shoes (or my feet) adapted, IDK... long story short: I got this, time to move on to the 2nd most important item

So all's well that ends well .

 

[RJM]

It really depends on the return policy of the store. Most stores will only take shoes back in new and re-sellable condition. However, REI touts their 1 year return policy for items that "didn't work out." I believe that you need to be a member to take advantage of this policy. They then resell the items in their "garage sales." I'm sure that there is a limit to this policy if someone abuses it. And their prices can sometimes be higher, but the return policy makes up for that on items that I'm not sure about.

One year return policy? OMG, that's ridiculous.
"Well, I wore the back pack on three different hiking trips, over the last six months but I'm just not quite happy with it. Can I have my money back?" lol

 

[trecile]

One year return policy? OMG, that's ridiculous.
"Well, I wore the back pack on three different hiking trips, over the last six months but I'm just not quite happy with it. Can I have my money back?" lol

It happens!
A friend bought a used Big Agnes tent at REI - only problem was that it needed a new zipper. Fortunately, my friend has a friend (me ) who sews and was able to replace the zipper without too much swearing.

Returned goods are supposed to be cleaned before returning, but I have seen sandals in the "used" area of my local REI store that weren't even given a rinse.

 

[Klogwog]

Greetings,
I have been wearing Merrell Moab's for the last 5/6 years with no problems , so what's the issue

 

[FLEUR]

Different feet require different shoes. It isn't a case of one design suits all.
Buy whatever fits comfortably.

 

[Bill905]

My experience taught me that a good store clerk can also make a difference with shoe selection and fitting. I bought a pair of Salomon with little sales help, and started breaking them in for about 2 months with occasional walks. But about a week before leaving for the CF, my body told me that my toes were too scrunched. I went back and asked for slightly wider. No dice. So I tried the Merrell MOAB 2 and bought a pair of wide, and completed my CF. I did get a few blisters, and it turns out these shoes were too wide for my feet. I think part of the reason I ended up with a pair too wide and a little too long was also partly due to my feet feeling some wonderful space after being a little too tight! A few months after returning, I happened to be in a different store, in a different city, and saw that they also carried the Merrell MOAB 2. At this store, the sales clerk took time with me, explained that the Merrells also come in half-sizes, let me try a few pairs normal and wide of different sizes, and I could really feel the differences. Success! I bought a pair of regular width Merrells a half-size smaller and they are very comfortable. I felt that the regular width Merrells are a little wider that regular width Salomons. Morals of the story: 1. Listen to your feet; 2. Work with a good sales clerk; 3. Be careful if you switch manufacturers or even switch styles from the same manufacturer. In a few weeks I will be returning to the Camino, this time to walk the Camino Portuguese with my granddaughter, and my feet are looking forward to it!

 

[Cicada]

My experience taught me that a good store clerk can also make a difference with shoe selection and fitting. I bought a pair of Salomon with little sales help, and started breaking them in for about 2 months with occasional walks. But about a week before leaving for the CF, my body told me that my toes were too scrunched. I went back and asked for slightly wider. No dice. So I tried the Merrell MOAB 2 and bought a pair of wide, and completed my CF. I did get a few blisters, and it turns out these shoes were too wide for my feet. I think part of the reason I ended up with a pair too wide and a little too long was also partly due to my feet feeling some wonderful space after being a little too tight! A few months after returning, I happened to be in a different store, in a different city, and saw that they also carried the Merrell MOAB 2. At this store, the sales clerk took time with me, explained that the Merrells also come in half-sizes, let me try a few pairs normal and wide of different sizes, and I could really feel the differences. Success! I bought a pair of regular width Merrells a half-size smaller and they are very comfortable. I felt that the regular width Merrells are a little wider that regular width Salomons. Morals of the story: 1. Listen to your feet; 2. Work with a good sales clerk; 3. Be careful if you switch manufacturers or even switch styles from the same manufacturer. In a few weeks I will be returning to the Camino, this time to walk the Camino Portuguese with my granddaughter, and my feet are looking forward to it!

Well said Bill have fun!

 

[mikebet]

I have had better luck with Merrell than other brands, but you have to remember that there is no Merrell factory -- just like other manufacturers they get their shoes from contractors all over the map (usually in Asia). Even made to spec there are bound to be some variations. Back in the day I used to buy shoes that fit my measurements, but after some blisters and lost toenails I figured out that (for me at least) it was better to buy shoes 1 1/2 to 2 sizes too big, then adjust them to fit using aftermarket insoles. That way you have plenty of toeroom and can experiment to find the right amount of cushioning and/or support for your unique feet and gait as well as the type of trail surface.

 

[Moorwalker]

Dont you hate it when your favorite brand decides to make an upgrade to a style, which means it no longer fits.

Tell me about it. I take a small size but have very wide Hobbit feet and finding shoes that I can even get my feet into is a nightmare. My partner takes a large size but very narrow and he gets a similar problem in that apparently men are supposed to have wide, clunky feet. Between us we can drive shoe sellers to tears.

Most manufacturers make small sizes in a much narrower fit because it is deemed that women should have dainty, delicate little feet. The wider men's sizes usually start at a couple of sizes bigger than I can wear. For a while Inov8 fitted me, until they changed their last and made them much narrower. Ditto Altra, and even though they now make a wide fit it isn't as wide as their shoes used to be and they only sell the wide fit in the USA. Keen are too narrow. I also dislike the current fashion for very thick, spongy soles.

I yearn to be able to walk into a store and have a choice of shoes, I'm lucky if there is even one pair that I could possibly wear.

 

[CarolamS]

Ditto Altra, and even though they now make a wide fit it isn't as wide as their shoes used to be and they only sell the wide fit in the USA.

In the UK Northern Runners have the women's wide fit Lone Peak 5's. I also have short wide women's feet. I love my wide Lone Peaks; plentry of room for my Injinji liner toe socks plus merino wool hike socks on top.

 

[Former member 99816]

I have had 3 pairs of Merrell Flex MQM and loved them. I bought a new pair and they have changed the last! Too long and narrow for me now. So annoying. However I discovered that Altra Lone Peak now come in regular or wide fittings and the wide are perfect for me.

Now that I've put 50 miles on them I have to agree that they feel too narrow. Even when I leave the strings loose, I get home and can't wait to take them off. I don't notice the tightness much when I'm walking though, so as long as I don't stop they'll probably be okay ....

 

[trecile]

Now that I've put 50 miles on them I have to agree that they feel too narrow. Even when I leave the strings loose, I get home and can't wait to take them off. I don't notice the tightness much when I'm walking though, so as long as I don't stop they'll probably be okay ....

If they feel too narrow now they are too narrow!
They will feel worse after walking 15 miles a day every day.

 

[Dan]

@puttster I can vouch for what trecile said above - and I'd urge you to bite the bullet before you go and get a pair that are comfortable.

over the years I've had 2 or 3 pairs of Salomon hiking shoes (the real McCoy goretex stuff, which in my experience always leaks) and a couple of pairs of Salomon boots. I clearly remember the pair I had on the first camino (st JdeP to Santiago). The tread under the balls of my feet wore down quickly. To the point that for the last 150km or so it was murder when placing weight on the forefoot over rocks, stones etc.
I can't remember having a problem with the fit of the first pair. But I did with all the rest. And it hurts. On The Arles Route, when we reached Toulouse, I gave away the boots I then had (not Salomons, some other brand which was designed to torture my feet) and purchased a pair of cutaway Salomon. I was so keen to get back to the Salomons I purchased this pair even though they were tight. It was all they had near my size. Boy did I suffer for that over the next few weeks.
My feet really needed the Wide fit which Salomon provides. Not easy to obtain.
Then I settled on a pair of US10 size Salomon boots - bliss. But now their soles have worn out. We're off again next month. I have recently tried all the varieties of Salomon but they are too narrow for me in the forefoot. I've driven sales people wild. But finally I now have a pair (another brand) which I'm confident won't kill me.
moral of the story: keep at it - they are meant to be comfortable
P.S. the Salomon normal fit are definitely more narrow now than a few years ago

 

[Former member 99816]

I've been walking my Merrill Flex shoes. Yesterday on the golf course I had to stop several times to empty out little stones. Is this a common problem with low quarters? Everything looks pretty tight.

 

[J Willhaus]

Yes, some portions of the Camino paths have more rock than others.

 

[RussB]

Hi I have an opinion! from someone who has foot issues. For me hiking, walking whether on Camino, the Appalachian Trail or any other trail has been a test. I have a knee replacement, a limp and I suffer from Newton’s neuroma! With that said I had tried many boots, and KEEN has hit the mark! When walking/hiking over 12 miles my feet get very swollen and the pressure begins. These are the 3 important things for a long hike like Camino: 1. buy a good shoe (KEEN) they are wide in the front, and my favorite, 2. change the inner sole the boot comes with to a “Superfeet “ (comes in different colors and styles) color/type according to foot, and 3. never tie your laces from the last bottom loop, skip one or two depending on your issue and start the laces up from there, this will allow the toe area to expand freely! Hope this helps, Buen Camino!!

Changing the insole makew a huge difference , Superfeet Orange give good arch support and a bit more padding

 

[davebugg]

I've been walking my Merrill Flex shoes. Yesterday on the golf course I had to stop several times to empty out little stones. Is this a common problem with low quarters? Everything looks pretty tight.

I haven't found it to be much of an issue, but it can happen. it depends on the shoe and the padded collar around the foot. In some cases a the area around the foot will create a 'gap' on the sides of the foot as the shoe flexes, which can allow more debris inside the shoe.

Since you know this is a potential issue, the solution could be a gaiter that a lot of recreational runners use, especially if they do trail running. Many backpackers also use them.

These are very lightweight and are specifically designed for the issue you are experiencing. One brand is Dirty Girl gaiters which are very popular with backpackers. Altra also makes gaiters designed for their shoes. Solomon makes two different styles. Pearl Izumi makes the 'Gravel Gaiter'.

I only mentioned those that I've had experience with, and there are a lot more options than the four I mentioned.

 

[RJM]

Now that I've put 50 miles on them I have to agree that they feel too narrow. Even when I leave the strings loose, I get home and can't wait to take them off. I don't notice the tightness much when I'm walking though, so as long as I don't stop they'll probably be okay ....

Any shoe you can't wait to take off due to discomfort is the wrong shoe to wear, especially on a 500 mile walk.
You know anybody you can give them to and perhaps try a different model or size?

 

[Northpole]

@puttster I can vouch for what trecile said above - and I'd urge you to bite the bullet before you go and get a pair that are comfortable.

over the years I've had 2 or 3 pairs of Salomon hiking shoes (the real McCoy goretex stuff, which in my experience always leaks) and a couple of pairs of Salomon boots. I clearly remember the pair I had on the first camino (st JdeP to Santiago). The tread under the balls of my feet wore down quickly. To the point that for the last 150km or so it was murder when placing weight on the forefoot over rocks, stones etc.
I can't remember having a problem with the fit of the first pair. But I did with all the rest. And it hurts. On The Arles Route, when we reached Toulouse, I gave away the boots I then had (not Salomons, some other brand which was designed to torture my feet) and purchased a pair of cutaway Salomon. I was so keen to get back to the Salomons I purchased this pair even though they were tight. It was all they had near my size. Boy did I suffer for that over the next few weeks.
My feet really needed the Wide fit which Salomon provides. Not easy to obtain.
Then I settled on a pair of US10 size Salomon boots - bliss. But now their soles have worn out. We're off again next month. I have recently tried all the varieties of Salomon but they are too narrow for me in the forefoot. I've driven sales people wild. But finally I now have a pair (another brand) which I'm confident won't kill me.
moral of the story: keep at it - they are meant to be comfortable
P.S. the Salomon normal fit are definitely more narrow now than a few years ago

Hi Dan, I was reading through different posts to see if someone was having this same issue with Salomon - they have changed so much! I really like their low hiking shoes, but my last pair (which is several years old) is getting a bit worn so I went to look for new ones. I tried on the current version and it didn't at all feel like the earlier ones. My size, and the size up, both felt small, which was really weird, and the feel was just different overall. Then I went to the Salomon US website and wow, there were SO many reviewers complaining that the shoe is no longer what it was. Lots of people complained about the fit, the width, and the overall quality.

What brand did you settle on for your latest pair? I know everyone is different but at least I would have something to try. Merrell a try.) Salomon has been perfect for me for so long - the sole is a bit stiff which has worked great, and I never got blisters from them. Thank you in advance!

 

[Former member 99816]

Final report on my Merrell Flexes: I am very happy with them.
After 400 Km on the Camino's hills I saw plenty, plenty of blisters but for me, not even a hint of one. I think part of the reason is the shoes felt a little narrow which kept my feet from sliding around. I am glad not to have gotten a wider shoe to accommodate swelling feet (often suggested). The toe box was generous, so no squeezing there and the top was tight enough to keep out stones but not rub anything the wrong way.
The venting material kept my feet dry though were not tested against rain. I could feel the stones through the flex sole but not in a bad way.

As for the grippers on the bottom they were very satisfactory, though again not tested on wet rocks. They are on the soft rubber side so they do wear though. The rock and gravel of the Camino is probably as rough s surface shoes will find and it is rough the Flex's grippers too, taking them down quite a bit (pic). Mine could have made one full Camino but no more. So if that's all you're going to do, I strongly recommend the Merrell Flex.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

The Merrell Flex fit fine on the store carpet but at home, when I walked on the hardwoods, not so great. The arch on one shoe seemed pushing up on the outside. Also, I saw there is only one width in this model which seems strange given all I've read here about feet getting wider. When I push toes all the way front I can stick one finger in the heel.

Thoughts? This will be my first long hike.

My son wears Merrell's but he is younger and his feet are not as wide and in need for a wider toe box. They are a light boot but wide sizes are not always available at retailer's. As I got into my later 50's I started noticing some irritation on the sides of my toes and had to look at different brands.
I agree you should return them. Over the miles the inner souls may adjust to your feet but no one needs that pain, and you definitely should not be able to put a finger behind your heel. As suggested try Keens or Oboz. They basically the same boot and you shouldn't need to go in a full size bigger.
Good luck and hope you find your good footwear.

 

[Scott Sweeney]

Now that I've put 50 miles on them I have to agree that they feel too narrow. Even when I leave the strings loose, I get home and can't wait to take them off. I don't notice the tightness much when I'm walking though, so as long as I don't stop they'll probably be okay ....

You don't want to walk in a that you have to leave the laces loose that's just asking for blisters. Your boots do not fit your feet. Keep them for everyday street shoes but do not do any serious walking in them.

 

[trecile]

You don't want to walk in a that you have to leave the laces loose that's just asking for blisters. Your boots do not fit your feet. Keep them for everyday street shoes but do not do any serious walking in them.

Perhaps you didn't read thus update?

Final report on my Merrell Flexes: I am very happy with them.
After 400 Km on the Camino's hills I saw plenty, plenty of blisters but for me, not even a hint of one. I think part of the reason is the shoes felt a little narrow which kept my feet from sliding around. I am glad not to have gotten a wider shoe to accommodate swelling feet (often suggested). The toe box was generous, so no squeezing there and the top was tight enough to keep out stones but not rub anything the wrong way.
The venting material kept my feet dry though were not tested against rain. I could feel the stones through the flex sole but not in a bad way.

As for the grippers on the bottom they were very satisfactory, though again not tested on wet rocks. They are on the soft rubber side so they do wear though. The rock and gravel of the Camino is probably as rough s surface shoes will find and it is rough the Flex's grippers too, taking them down quite a bit (pic). Mine could have made one full Camino but no more. So if that's all you're going to do, I strongly recommend the Merrell Flex.

 

[Dan]

Hi Dan, I was reading through different posts to see if someone was having this same issue with Salomon - they have changed so much! I really like their low hiking shoes, but my last pair (which is several years old) is getting a bit worn so I went to look for new ones. I tried on the current version and it didn't at all feel like the earlier ones. My size, and the size up, both felt small, which was really weird, and the feel was just different overall. Then I went to the Salomon US website and wow, there were SO many reviewers complaining that the shoe is no longer what it was. Lots of people complained about the fit, the width, and the overall quality.

What brand did you settle on for your latest pair? I know everyone is different but at least I would have something to try. Merrell a try.) Salomon has been perfect for me for so long - the sole is a bit stiff which has worked great, and I never got blisters from them. Thank you in advance!

Hi @Northpole - sorry for the delay in replying. Just haven't checked the forum - for several reasons: returned from the Le Puy route and once back in 'civilisation' we were laid low with the 'flu and Covid. Then I tore a muscle in my upper backside leaning over a cliff at the rear of our property, hanging onto a tree, and attempting to tear out a large noxious weed. Had to be taken to hospital and put on morphine. Thought I'd never walk again. Recovery took about 6 weeks. But all good now.
The shoes I used were NorthFace, Futurelight (a variation on Goretex). Will double check specs. when I get home from the coffee shop in which I'm now day-dreaming. I'm not sure if you have walked or are planning and investigation walks. Can send you links to photos/description of the Arles Route & the Le Puy route if you like.
kind regards
Dan
P.S. or any others in the profile

 

[Northpole]

Hi @Northpole - sorry for the delay in replying. Just haven't checked the forum - for several reasons: returned from the Le Puy route and once back in 'civilisation' we were laid low with the 'flu and Covid. Then I tore a muscle in my upper backside leaning over a cliff at the rear of our property, hanging onto a tree, and attempting to tear out a large noxious weed. Had to be taken to hospital and put on morphine. Thought I'd never walk again. Recovery took about 6 weeks. But all good now.
The shoes I used were NorthFace, Futurelight (a variation on Goretex). Will double check specs. when I get home from the coffee shop in which I'm now day-dreaming. I'm not sure if you have walked or are planning and investigation walks. Can send you links to photos/description of the Arles Route & the Le Puy route if you like.
kind regards
Dan
P.S. or any others in the profile

Hi Dan, thank you so much for getting back to me, and wow, you have had a rough month/weeks! :O So sorry to hear about your flu, Covid, and the torn muscle - sounds extremely painful!

I am currently just walking where I live, but we have lots of trails (and hills!) so it is a good place for testing (planning to walk the Primitivo next year). I am still using my Salomon shoes as I explore other options. I will check out the NorthFace you mention!

Oh and Le Puy looks so beautiful, a friend of mine did it in June and I was fascinated by the beauty of the route!