Merrell, a brand known for its extensive range of hiking shoes and boots, has introduced the SpeedArc Surge Boa, a shoe designed to rethink sole construction. Drawing inspiration from the world of off-road vehicles, the SpeedArc Surge Boa combines innovative materials and features to enhance comfort, fit, and performance on challenging trails.
A unique approach to sole design
The standout feature of the SpeedArc Surge Boa is its nitrogen-injected “active response coils,” which function as a midsole system. These coils are made up of two separate layers of foam, separated by a central nylon flex plate running the length of the shoe. The bottom layer is engineered to absorb impact energy when the shoe strikes rough terrain, while the upper layer captures energy from each step, repurposing it to power the next stride. This design is intended to create softer landings and more effortless lift-offs, offering hikers a smoother experience on uneven ground.
Merrell’s design team took cues from independent suspension systems found in off-road vehicles, channeling their function into the shoe’s two-part foam construction. The result is a midsole that combines shock-absorbing compression with energy-boosting rebound.
“We’ve purposefully built the SpeedArc Surge Boa to return every ounce of energy you put in, taking each stride and propelling it forward,” explains Ian Cobb, Merrell’s design director. “With double the energy return found in our independent lab tests, it keeps your feet feeling cushioned and comfortable every step of the way so you can experience a motion that knows no bounds and zero limitations. This shoe will make your four miles feel like two.”
Enhanced fit with dual Boa dials
In addition to its innovative midsole, the SpeedArc Surge Boa features a dual Boa closure system, a rarity in low-cut hiking shoes. While dual Boa dials are common in larger boots, they’re not often seen in smaller hiking footwear. The dual dials allow hikers to independently adjust two sections of the shoe: the upper near the knit-bootie ankle collar and the mid/lower area near the toes. This dual-zone adjustment creates a snug, customized fit that enhances comfort and stability.
The dual Boa system also offers practical advantages. Adjustments can be made with a few quick clicks, eliminating the need to untie and re-tie laces. This simplicity is particularly useful on the trail, where untied or dangling laces can become a tripping hazard. Additionally, the absence of laces means no more struggling to loosen double knots after a long hike.
Performance claims and real-world potential
The SpeedArc Surge Boa is marketed as providing “double the energy return” compared to other Merrell shoes, with lab tests backing these claims. However, the real-world performance of these features remains to be tested extensively on the trail. While the nitrogen-injected coils and dual Boa system certainly make a compelling case for improved comfort and energy efficiency, it’s difficult to fully gauge their impact without firsthand experience.
Limited availability and pricing
The SpeedArc Surge Boa is currently offered as a limited-release product, with a retail price of $290. This price point positions it as a premium option in the hiking shoe market, reflecting the advanced technology and materials used in its construction. Whether the shoe’s features justify the cost will ultimately depend on individual preferences and trail experiences.
Conclusion
Merrell’s SpeedArc Surge Boa brings together an innovative blend of suspension-inspired sole technology and precise, dual-zone fit adjustments. Its nitrogen-injected active response coils and dual Boa closure system set it apart from conventional hiking shoes, aiming to provide a more cushioned, energy-efficient, and secure hiking experience. For those intrigued by cutting-edge footwear design and willing to invest in premium gear, the SpeedArc Surge Boa is a product worth considering, especially if Merrell decides to make it a long-term addition to its lineup.
Source: Merrell
