Merrell
Nova 4
A comfortable, supportive trail shoe for newcomers and heel strikers, with versatile 4 mm lugs and a breathable, gusseted upper. It's lighter than before, but the ride is firm with little energy return.
What's new: Lighter than the Nova 3, with a redesigned, more comfortable upper and a fully gusseted tongue.
About the Nova 4
Aimed at a broad audience, the Merrell Nova 4 is a cushioned trail shoe that the brand lists for off-trail running, hiking, beginners and obstacle racing. It replaces the Nova 3, losing that model's rock plate and some weight along the way.
The midsole is FloatPro foam, and the outsole has changed from Vibram TC5+ to Merrell's own Quantum Grip rubber, with 4 mm chevron lugs that face backwards at the heel and forwards at the forefoot. The upper has been fully redesigned, with punched eyelets and a fully gusseted tongue.
The Nova 4 has an 8 mm drop, higher than the 6 mm of the more aggressive Agility Peak 6. A wide fitting is offered in select countries, which suits the running shoes for wide feet guide, and its brief makes it relevant to running shoes for beginners heading off-road.
Specs and features from runrepeat.com, sportsshoes.com and our own spec data. A factual overview, not a review.
Video reviews
What the critics say
79/100 review score
- RunRepeat 76/100
The reviews in briefRunRepeat's Carlos Sánchez rated the Merrell Nova 4 a strong, affordable choice for trail beginners and heel strikers, praising its lighter build, comfortable gusseted upper and versatile lugs that also suit hiking. He found the ride firm with very little energy return, and his lab measured a drop well above the stated figure.
- Positive: Excellent first trail shoe that suits heel strikers
- Positive: Lighter and more comfortable than the Nova 3
- Positive: Versatile lugs that also work for hiking
- Negative: Very little energy return
- Negative: High measured drop can feel awkward
Paraphrased from published reviews. Read them in full:
The numbers
- Trail
- Type
- 272 g
- Weight
- 29 mm
- Heel stack
- 8 mm
- Drop
- No plate
- Plate
- Inherently stable
- Support
Weight for a men's US 9 / UK 8.5.
What it feels like
Fit
True to size
True to size with an average-width, generously tall toe box; a wide version is sold in some countries.
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On TikTok
Nova 4 on TikTokShort reviews and wear tests from runnersWhere to buy the Nova 4
RRP around £120. Tap through for today's price.
Merrell Nova 4
In short
A good first trail shoe if you're new to off-road running, land on your heels or want one pair for running and hiking. Experienced runners after a lively ride should look elsewhere.
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