Kit & Gear

FIRST LOOK: Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx®

Aimed at elite athletes competing at the highest levels, the Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx® is built to handle tough and technical terrain over long to ultra trail distances.
ㅤ
The upper features a single-layer, Kevlar reinforced Matryx® woven textile that maximizes breathability and durability while dramatically reducing stretch. Internally the lining treatment wicks moisture while the midsole features Merrell's best FloatPro™ Foam for long distance comfort. A Vibram® MegaGrip® outsole with 5mm lugs offers maximum traction across all types of off-road terrain.

ㅤ

The tech

ㅤ

ㅤ

Matryx® Upper

Surrounding the upper of the shoe is a Matryx® upper which combines multi-filament threads of Kevlar and high-tenacity polyamide to create a single layer of material that is lightweight, with better breathability and abrasion resistance. This makes the material tear-resistant, resisting damage from strong forces placed against it and will also allow moisture from sweat to escape easily, keeping you in a dry and comfortable environment. A traditional lacing system will allow you to find a personalised and secure fit while the soft tongue will reduce the risk of irritation being caused by rubbing and chafing.

ㅤ

ㅤ

Dual Density FloatPro Foam Midsole

Within the midsole Merrell's signature FloatPro Foam has been used to ensure a light, durable ride. The midsole ensures ample underfoot cushioning to reduce the impact placed upon the feet on tough trails whilst remaining as lightweight as possible so you'll never feel weighed down. The lightweight midsole offers supreme cushioning and support to key areas like the arch and heel, holding the foot securely in place for a smoother transition and wear. By supporting these key areas of the foot, the midsole material can also help to offer enough support to help prevent discomfort and possible injury. As well as this, a Cleansport NXT treatment offers natural odour control, keeping the shoes fresher for longer. Completing the midsole is an ETPU high rebound foam footbed that offers better cushioning, durability and increased breathability underfoot. The soft insole cushions your feet over long distances and increases ventilation to keep you cool when temperatures rise.

ㅤ

ㅤ

Vibram Megagrip Outsole

Developed using a Vibram Megagrip outsole, the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx® provides extreme grip and traction for all surface wear. Developed for extremely slippery terrain, the extremely durable rubber can form a solid bond with the ground to anchor you in place. Despite facing abuse from rough ground, the rubber stands up against this, deflecting the blows and retaining a strong shape and structure. Ensuring multi-directional grip, the outsole provides traction on uneven terrain to give you confident footing on a wide variety of surfaces. The durable rubber provides a strong grip on the most challenging terrain; it works to protect itself from damage and protect users from losing control and slipping. Completing the outsole are the 5mm lugs that dig deep into the ground when braking or changing direction. The deep lugs can anchor the foot into the wet and muddy ground, securing you into place whilst also forming a solid base to push off from.

ㅤ

ㅤ

Summary of key features

ㅤ

Tough as trails

The durable MTL Long Sky 2 is redesigned with Matryx® to be ultra-durable, tougher, and faster.

ㅤ

Run Lighter, run longer

Now 15% lighter, the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx® means every trail run is a chance to run longer, stronger and faster.

ㅤ

The more they breathe, the better you run

Designed with rain in mind, you can stay drier and go further. MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx® keeps your feet dry and comfortable on any trail in any condition.

ㅤ

Grip so good, it’s groundbreaking

Featuring a Vibram Megagrip outsole to keep feet firmly planted in unfirm terrain.

ㅤ

Merrell: Same is boring

Trail athletes are change-lovers. Not wanting the same thing twice. Bring on the rain, the sun, hell even the snow, because they wouldn’t have it any other way. The trail-ier the better. Same goes for Merrell, we thrive in the complete unpredictability of the trail. And with 40 years of trail know how, the trail is now second nature to us. And while trail athletes love being surprised by the trail, it’s nice to have a shoe that isn’t. One that is rock steady and ready to adapt to whatever comes its way. So don’t give us the same. We choose the trail. Because same is boring.

ㅤ

Interested in the latest shoes, apparel and technology? Then head over to our Kit & Gear category for more reviews, tips, advice and product releases.