No matter what your workout of choice, taking it outdoors can make it that much more fun. To get into the Spring spirit, we've got 10 fun shoes for almost any activity that will take you outdoors — or keep you in — this season. From walking to hiking to trail running, read on for our Spring shoe picks!
While feeling connected to the ground is something I appreciate during a gym workout, I didn't think this same feeling could translate to a hike — out in the wild, a stiffer shoe is the rule. I was dubious when Merrell sent me its new minimalist hiking shoe, but after going on numerous hikes in the Proterra Vim Sport ($100), I can't wear anything else on my feet. With hiking season just about to hit, here's why the Vims make an excellent choice on the trail.
Before I even got the Vims out of the box, I was struck at both the weight and size of the shoes. The Vims weigh in at only 24 ounces; surprisingly lightweight for a hiking shoe. On my first hike out, I found that I appreciated how light the Vims are; it made maneuvering the trail much easier, and unlike my other hiking shoes, I wasn't keenly aware of the added weight on my feet. This helped me move a bit quicker, and also added to my comfort level, which was especially important on a recent 10-mile hike. While many hiking shoes use steel to offer stability, Merrell saves ounces by using Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) in the arch, which allows for more flexibility. While I felt more connected to the ground in the Vims — but not so much I felt every twig and rock under my feet — they're still built with stiff support. In addition to stable arch support, the midsole is built with PU to offer added stability. While these shoes will definitely be my go-to for most day hikes, I would probably opt for a steel design for any difficult hiking with rough terrain.
Keeping reading to learn even more about the Vims!
San Francisco has a seemingly endless supply of parks and trails, so when Merrell sent its newest pair of trail-running minimalist shoes I was happy to give them a try. After a few weeks running outdoors in the new Mix Master Move Glide shoes ($95), I can say that I wholeheartedly love them. If you're an outdoor runner or hiker who can't wait for the snow to melt to get out and enjoy the trails, here's why you'll love these lightweight trail-running shoes.
After my first run in the shoes, I was surprised at how lightweight they felt. The mostly mesh upper makes the shoe pretty light; the women's pair clocks in at 14 ounces. And while I love minimalist shoes, I'm by no means a barefoot runner, so I was worried that the shoes wouldn't offer me enough support while I navigated uneven terrain. Luckily, I was wrong: even when I made a misstep and stumbled on a rocky piece of trail, I never felt out of control. Not only do the soles offer good grip and traction, but my feet always felt secure in them; the hard heel back and plastic lacing overlay gives some structure to the mesh exterior, and the 4-mm drop from heel to ball was designed to give absorb impact. Since I'm not used to barefoot-style shoes, I left the removable insole in, and felt that the shoes offered enough cushioning during all except my longer runs; at six miles I felt like the balls of my feet could use a little more cushioning, but it didn't hamper my comfort too much.
Join FitSugar and Merrell on an urban hike along the San Francisco Bay for the best of both worlds — the beach and some city bustle!
On Sunday, Aug. 21, at 2 pm, join FitSugar editor Susi May and Sugar’s hiking enthusiasts to explore the beautiful sights of Crissy Field! You’ll enjoy what’s in your very own backyard with some great company and fit in some exercise while you’re at it! We’ll be giving away eco-friendly water bottles to keep you hydrated and FitSugarTV will be on hand to cover it all. Space is limited, so RSVP to HikeSF@sugarinc.com to secure your spot. For a preview, be sure to download our Crissy Field hiking guide here. Enjoy!
Come hiking and explore the outdoors with Merrell and FitSugar in your own backyard!
On Saturday, July 30, at 2 p.m. sharp, join FitSugarTV host Zelana Montminy and Sugar’s hiking enthusiasts for some old fashion exercise and great company on a scenic stroll through Los Angeles’s Will Rogers Park. FitSugarTV will be there filming it all and we’ll be giving away eco-friendly water bottles to keep you hydrated! Space is limited, so RSVP to HikeLA@sugarinc.com to secure your place. You’ll receive a confirmation email as the event approaches, but to get fired up be sure to download our Will Rogers Park hiking guide here. Enjoy!
Enjoying nature and getting outdoors doesn’t mean you have to hop in the car to drive to your favorite hiking destination. Urban hiking can be just as vigorous and adventurous as trail hiking, so be sure to bring the same essentials with you: water, snacks, layers, an ID, and some cash — just in case.
Whether you map out a trail or wander with no destination in mind, be sure to mix up the terrain in order to get a better workout. Also, be sure to take advantage of the wide sidewalks — take your baby stroller with you or hold hands with your honey. Keep a lookout for cars and always have your eyes open for hidden gems you might otherwise overlook. Have fun urban hiking!
Click on the city nearest you for a custom hiking guide.
We all know that regular exercise does a body good, but feeling restrained behind gym walls can leave you feeling burned out and unmotivated. To mix things up and add adventure to your workout, get outside and hike! Educate yourself on its amazing health benefits.
Click on the city nearest to you for a customized hiking guide — San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, Boston, or New York.
Merrell is giving away $300 to three lucky winners, so don't forget to tell us where your feet would lead you if you had your choice of an outdoor adventure — think big or small! By logging in to PopSugar and leaving a comment here, you'll be automatically entered to win, and how nice does a $300 shopping spree sound?
Better yet, Merrell has an amazing giveaway of its own! By trying on a pair of Merrell Barefoot, you'll be entered to win one of three exciting trips that are sure to knock your socks off! The contest is almost over, so don't forget to leave a comment here and to stop by an authorized Merrell retailer near you. Good luck!
In case you missed it, Merrell wants to outfit three lucky winners with stylish and practical gear to get you ready for Spring and all the great outdoor adventures that come with warmer temps. To enter for your chance to win, just leave a comment telling us where your feet would lead you if the options were endless. Additionally, don't forget that Merrell is doing an in-store giveaway of its own. By trying on a pair of Merrell Barefoot, you'll be entered to win one of three awe-inspiring trips, along with head-to-toe Merrell gear! Don't forget to leave a comment here!
