These Merrell Footwear Are Comfortable, Fashionable, and Versatile

I’m a carry-on-only form of traveler — which is rarely more difficult than after I’m packing for a winter journey. In any case, cumbersome sweaters and jackets take up important actual property in my suitcase, irrespective of how aggressively I attempt to comprise them in packing cubes. Consequently, I must be extremely selective about what I pack, and that features footwear. 

Earlier this yr, I took a visit to Norway for per week, to go to the snowy mountains of Voss and discover the scenic metropolis streets of Oslo. I didn’t have area to pack further sneakers in my small suitcase (aside from my operating sneakers), so those I used to be sporting to the airport could be the pair that needed to final me the total week. The footwear I selected is Merrell’s Bristol Chelsea Boots.

Merrell Bristol Chelsea Boots

I’ve been a giant fan of Merrell ever since I wore the model’s traditional Moab mountain climbing boots whereas mountain climbing my first “14er” (a mountain that’s 14,000 ft above sea degree) in Colorado again in 2017. I’ve examined loads of Merrell sneakers and equipment over the past seven years, and I’ve continued to be impressed by the model’s high quality, sturdiness, and luxury. That’s why, after I may solely take one pair of sneakers with me to Norway, I trusted their Bristol boots — which have the construct of a mountain climbing shoe and the model of a traditional Chelsea boot — would do the trick.

Fortunately, my instincts have been proper. I broke these boots in whereas strolling by the airport (yep, they have been recent out of the field), and was instantly impressed by how snug they felt. I additionally admire that they regarded stylish paired with leggings and an outsized sweater.

Within the ski city of Voss (the place former Olympian Kari Traa taught me tips on how to ski—that’s a narrative for one more day), I felt snug sporting these boots in snowy circumstances. The outsole supplied loads of grip on the moist, slippery floor. I additionally liked the substantial sole, with thick lugs that gave me loads of assist in varied terrains. Plus, I didn’t have to fret concerning the leather-based higher getting ruined in damp climate circumstances, for the reason that materials is waterproof. 

After spending a number of days in Voss, I took the six-hour practice to Oslo, Norway’s capital metropolis. There, I walked over 30,000 steps in these boots, exploring the Opera Home, Munch Museum, Deichman Library, Nationwide Museum, and varied charming neighborhoods like Grünerløkka. Obtainable in black or white, I may simply costume my white pair up or down for a pleasant dinner out or a day of sightseeing and purchasing. And, despite the fact that I’d by no means worn these boots earlier than the journey, I walked away with out a single blister. That mentioned, I do extremely suggest pairing these sneakers with some thicker crew or mountain climbing socks, because the high-top higher of the boots might rub in your calves in any other case. 

Merrell Bristol Chelsea Boots

Yet another factor I really like about these sneakers: They’re made with eco-friendly supplies, like recycled rubber and recycled mesh lining. Additionally they function an insole that’s handled for pure odor management, which is a serious bonus.

Don’t simply take my phrase for it; loads of Merrell clients are raving about these boots. “They’re snug, heat, waterproof, and have nice traction! I wore them on daily basis on my 10-day ski journey. Carrying these is like strolling on clouds. They do not dig into your ankles like some Chelsea boots do,” wrote one shopper. 

One other purchaser known as them, a “nice, trendy boot that labored effectively for me within the metropolis and in addition mountain climbing over rocks and thru mud.” It’s price noting that some consumers say these boots are a bit slim—I personally have slim ft, so this labored effectively for me, however these with wider ft might wish to dimension up.I used to be a bit cautious of packing brilliant white leather-based boots for an lively journey, however I used to be completely happy to seek out my boots nonetheless regarded unbelievable on the finish of my Norway travels. I’ll completely be bringing these useful Chelsea boots on upcoming winter excursions in 2025 and past. 

Extra Comfy Climbing Boots to Store:

Sorel Explorer STRT™ Chelsea Boot

Blundstone Ladies’s 1448 Chelsea Boot 

Danner Bull Run Chelsea Boots

Xero Ridgeway Chelsea Boots 

Merrell Harper Lace-up

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