Backpacker Magazine – March 2006

Hiking Boots Review: Merrell Chameleon II GTX XCR

Breathable low-cut hikers for medium-volume feet.

by: Steve Howe, BACKPACKER Rocky Mountain Editor

Tags:
• Gear
|
• Hiking boots
|

---

One of the most supportive low-cut hikers we've seen, the Chameleon let one editor comfortably carry 40 pounds on hikes in Glacier and Olympic National Parks, including miles of off-trail hiking and steep scree. "Good fit out of the box," he reported. "The shoe cradles my heel and midfoot nicely while leaving plenty of toe room." The Chameleon kept another editor happy on a dayhike along New York's Devil's Path, which features 18,000 feet of elevation gain/loss and requires constant scrambling up and down steep slabs and chutes. "The innovative dot-pattern tread stuck to wet and dry rock beautifully," he said, "and the supple leather/synthetic upper felt like a favorite old sneaker-even after 26 miles." Both testers also praised the shoe's breathability; their feet stayed remarkably dry on hot and rainy days alike. Despite hard use, these low-cuts are showing no signs of wear, thanks in part to their sturdy rubber toes. Best for medium-volume feet.

Price: $110

Weight: 2 lbs. 3 oz.

Subscribe to Backpacker magazine
Sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter