First Impressions: Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx

Merrell, traditionally known for hiking options, emerges as a formidable contender in the trail running scene with the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx – releasing in late Spring 2024. While the brand might not have been your first thought for trail running, the eye-catching design and dynamic color scheme of the shoe, along with the lightweight and comfortable technology, make a strong case that they are real players in the game.

Merrell Test Lab (where the MTL in this shoe comes from) is described as considering the outdoors the lab and testing done on the trails by professionals.

Read all our posts about Merrell here!

I am not a professional trail runner. Shoot – I am hardly a novice trail runner most years. I put in a cool three digits in trail running each year, but with three kids at home and a full-time non-blog job, my time to spend hours on the trails is limited. So, the phrase “Designed in Partnership with World Class Athletes” makes me feel a bit like a fraud. However, if it’s good enough for them, it sure as heck better be good enough for me, right?!

Looks:

Unboxing the shoe elicits a genuine “Wow” with its visually striking design. While some may have reservations about the brand and model name boldly emblazoned along the sides, the captivating play of colors and the meticulous design make a compelling argument for this shoe’s place in the world of trail aesthetics.

In it for the Long Haul: Merrell MTL Long Sky 2

Pink may not be for everybody, but hot dang I love myself some of this colorway. While it’s a predominantly white trail shoe, it defies convention by incorporating vibrant colors at the front, arranged in an angular design that gives the shoe an energetic visual orientation. The contrast definitely adds a touch of flair. It’s a harmonious blend of style and functionality, a shoe that not only performs on the trails but also makes a statement while doing so.

Fit and Construction: 

Weighing in at a mere 8.8 oz (M 9.5), the Long Sky 2 Matryx is among the lightest and airiest options available. It is evident on first wear – “dang these are light”. The single-layer Matryx upper (hence the name), is made of polyamide mesh with Kevlar threads, contributes significantly to this weight reduction. Despite its minimalistic design, the Matryx upper provides a secure foothold without the need for excessive lace tension. The shoe’s foot shape aligns well with various foot types, offering a comfortable fit true to size.

Constructed with precision, the Long Sky 2 Matryx features a FloatPro midsole, a lightweight and balanced foam that complements the overall feel of the shoe. The midsole’s density strikes a middle ground, providing a firm yet responsive experience. Notably, the integration of a thin TPU insole adds a touch of comfort to the firmness of the foam. It’s a surprisingly comfortable ride – even as I would say the fit is more firm than cushy.

Upper:

The biggest difference between the original version of the Long Sky 2 and this Matryx version comes via a fully remade upper.

The Long Sky 2 Matryx’s new upper, crafted from a thin layer of Matryx, combines durability and minimalism. The material, though slightly rigid, molds well to the foot shape, offering a secure fit. The use of Matryx allows for a strong foothold without compromising on comfort. The shoe’s tongue and rear lining, treated with 37.5 thermoregulating material, add an extra layer of functionality. I do wish there was some more padding on the heel, but I haven’t experienced any hot spots yet so I can’t complain too much for something that is still working well.

Midsole and Outsole: 

The midsole and outsole are essentially the same, so make sure you check out our original review for more info.

Beneath your feet lies Merrell’s FloatPro midsole, a foam that mirrors the lightweight and well-balanced nature of the shoe. While not overly soft, it probably lands somewhere in the middle, delivering a consistent and responsive trail experience. The thin TPU insole further enhances the overall comfort, making each stride surprisingly (?) comfy.

As a larger runner (6’2, 200#), my feet and legs generally prefer a more cushioned ride in my trail shoes, but these – though I wouldn’t have thought so out of the box – are absolutely are a joy to run in.

The Vibram Megagrip outsole on the Long Sky 2 Matryx has deep 5mm chevron-shaped lugs, strategically placed for traction. While I don’t typically find myself on trails needing a ton of grip, it seems to work equally as well on softer and wetter trails as well. The rubber’s soft and tacky feel, coupled with the shoe’s flexibility, provides excellent grip on loose surfaces. The outsole’s thoughtful design strikes a balance between weight savings and underfoot protection. There is a surprisingly large amount of rubber between the lugs that allow for durability.

Final Thoughts: 

The Long Sky 2 Matryx excels in both form and function. The lightweight design, coupled with a comfortable fit and well-balanced midsole, delivers a pure joy on the trails. The shoe proves its mettle over various distances, offering versatility for different paces and terrains. Whether you’re speeding through technical trails or enjoying an easy jog, the Long Sky 2 Matryx should a reliable choice, earning its spot as one of the best and lightest options in the trail running realm.

Priced at $160 and set to hit the market in March/April 2024, it’s a contender worth waiting for.