The guys over at Merrell kindly let me review two of their boots from their outdoor 'winter' range...The 'Norsehund Omega Mid' for the men, and the 'Snowbound Mid', for the women.
The Norsehund is an insulated winter boot with a waterproof membrane to keep water out and allow your feet to breath. They feature full grain leather uppers, and they incorporate Opti-Warm® insulation and a heat-reflective insole. They also feature a very grippy sole, using soft rubber, and thick moulds, they really grip the ground well. Another thing to note is the use of 'Aegis', a microbe-shield, which controls deterioration, odour, and staining.
As anyone knows, Merrell are one of the best outdoor footwear manufacturers in the world and they have NOT disappointed me with these boots.They do the job exceptionally well. They stand up to the mud stains, which can be easily washed off, they feel super warm and soft inside, and these don't need much breaking in to get them comfy, unlike many other boots! The quality is just superb, very much a worth-while buy, and a purchase that'll last for years if you look after them!
UPPER/LINING• Cement construction provides lightweight durability
• Full grain leather upper
• Abrasion resistant toe cap and heel
• Waterproof membrane provides impermeable but breathable barrier
• 200g Merrell Opti-Warm lightweight, low-bulk, synthetic insulation keeps you warm in varying conditions
• 300g Merrell Conductor™ Fleece provides lightweight, versatile heat retention in varying condition
• EVA removable footbed
• Merrell Active Heat insole with silver reflective film for added warmth
•Comfort range -25F/-32C
MIDSOLE/OUTSOLE
• Molded nylon arch shank
• Merrell Norsehund Sole / Cold Smart Traction
• 5.5 mm sole lug depth
Men’s Sizes: 7-12,13,14,15
Men’s Weight: 2lbs 6oz
Now, one for the ladies....
The 'Snowbound Mid' boot holds pretty similar properties to the 'Norsehund' boot, but with added extras, such as a 'rubberised' toe section, a cosy insulated upper lining, and a quick dry fleece top.
My wife tested these, and she fell in love with them. In her opinion the boot is just the right height around the ankle area and doesn't rub. The rubber toe box gives added waterproof protection like a wellington boot , and also gives some abrasion resistance. She also likes the 'furr fleece' effect on the tops of the boots, as they are stylish but practical, and most of all they are very warm!
UPPER / LINING• Strobel construction offers flexibility and comfort
• Synthetic coated leather and mesh upper
• TPU Waterproof shell
• 200 grams Merrell Opti-Warm™ lightweight, low-bulk, synthetic insulation keeps you warm in varying conditions
• Merrell Conductor Fleece treated with Aegis® provides lightweight, versatile heat retention in varying conditions
MIDSOLE / OUTSOLE
• Molded nylon arch shank
• Compression molded EVA footframe for stability and comfort
• Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
• Removable EVA footbed
• Merrell Snowbound Sole/Sticky Rubber
• Comfort range to -40F/-40C
Women’s Weight: 2lbs
Overall both these boots are great performers, and they look the part too! Warm, tough, stylish and grippy.....what more could you ask for!
For more info please visit http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/Merrell~b289.htm Tell them mattysreviews sent you.
Or, if you have any questions for Merrell, please visit www.merrell.com .
