Building on the success of one of Merrell's most popular trail running shoes, the Agility Peak 5 is updated from the already successful trail runner. In this latest version, the rocker is increased, weight is reduced to less than 300g, and the heel cup is sculpted for better on-foot comfort and less slip. Whether you are running an ultra, competing in cross country, or training for your next trail 5K, the Agility Peak 5 is your go-to trail shoe for any condition with maximum cushion and comfort.
Building on the success of one of Merrell's most popular trail running shoes, the Agility Peak 5 is updated from the already successful trail runner. In this latest version, the rocker is increased, weight is reduced to less than 300g, and the heel cup is sculpted for better on-foot comfort and less slip. Whether you are running an ultra, competing in cross country, or training for your next trail 5K, the Agility Peak 5 is your go-to trail shoe for any condition with maximum cushion and comfort.
Building on the success of one of Merrell's most popular trail running shoes, the Agility Peak 5 is updated from the already successful trail runner. In this latest version, the rocker is increased, weight is reduced to less than 300g, and the heel cup is sculpted for better on-foot comfort and less slip. Whether you are running an ultra, competing in cross country, or training for your next trail 5K, the Agility Peak 5 is your go-to trail shoe for any condition with maximum cushion and comfort.
Building on the success of one of Merrell's most popular trail running shoes, the Agility Peak 5 is updated from the already successful trail runner. In this latest version, the rocker is increased, weight is reduced to less than 300g, and the heel cup is sculpted for better on-foot comfort and less slip. Whether you are running an ultra, competing in cross country, or training for your next trail 5K, the Agility Peak 5 is your go-to trail shoe for any condition with maximum cushion and comfort.
Last updated at 04/27/2025 00:16:38
originally posted on merrell.com
I have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is ... MoreI have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is always a plus, and the lug pattern works very well in mud.The Bad: The heel pocket seems too wide compared with the rest of the shoe. Even with a heel lock, it feels like I’m sort of floating in the heel. Lift isn’t the issue, but rather it’s a lack of lateral security. This is compounded by another issue, the narrow footprint of the shoe at ground level, particularly in the heel. I feel as though a few more millimeters of width in the heel where it hits the ground could make the aft part of the shoe feel more stable. I definitely feel more stable staying up toward the front of the shoe. If I get back on the heel, particularly in technical sections, it gets a little squirrelly. While the outsole is plenty grippy, the long, widely spaced lugs do mean less rubber meets the terrain on stuff like wet roots, so there are some limitations compared to a less aggressive lug pattern. Also, the front of the shoe could be a little more breathable, but YMMV.Overall this is a solid shoe that moves along very well. I am definitely enjoying them and still am figuring them out for my applications. The bad things I listed are in no way deal breakers, but I do feel a couple minor changes could make this shoe a true max cushion technical terrain beast. As it is, you can cruise up to moderate terrain for hours in total comfort.
originally posted on merrell.com
I am on my second pair and it's probably my favorite trail running shoe. I feel confident and comfortable in this shoe on any terrain including technical, steep mountain trails. Traction is excellent. Stability is very good for a shoe with this stack height. Comfort is where this shoe shines. The midsole reminds me of the EVO Speedgoat, just the right balance of cushion and responsiveness. I have high arches and get plenty of support. The only complaint I have is the durability. I got about 280 miles out of my first pair before the upper blew out. I almost didn't buy a second pair because of this, but the shoe is so good in every other way that I had to. Hoping to get more miles out of my second pair.
originally posted on merrell.com
Definitely lighter than the GTex model, with a pliable upper that hugs the foot nicely. Good heel hold with proper lacing. Appreciate the waterproof surround of the midsole. These took a few kms in the trails to soften up a bit, now? They're fast, agile, and responsive. I'd place these at *almost* ultra-level shoes. Grip is aggressive but not clumsy/catchy, sheds muck easily. Realy a great high-performance trail shoe with all the right stuff. Bought these to replace my (sadly now dead) Saucony Xodus-Ultra V.1, this years V.2 just didn't cut it. The Peak5 are *very* similar in all the right ways and then some; not as light, or soft hitting, but they make up for it in feeling super solid underfoot and balanced.
I have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is ... MoreI have around 50 miles on my pair, including the 24.5-mile, 2200+ feet second day of Moab Run the Rocks as well as a few runs in typical PNW terrain (roots, mud, etc.).The Good: This shoe is very comfortable and has good support, without an aftermarket insole, for my high arched feet. The toe box is generous but not sloppy, and the booty-like tongue system wraps the midfoot nicely. The midsole has nice rebound, and you don’t feel like you’re getting bogged down at toe-off like you do in mushier max cushion shoes. I think the rock plate helps with this while also providing plenty of protection, along with the rockered shape keeping you moving. However, there’s just enough ground feel to keep you in tune with the ground. The outsole uses Vibram Megagrip, which is always a plus, and the lug pattern works very well in mud.The Bad: The heel pocket seems too wide compared with the rest of the shoe. Even with a heel lock, it feels like I’m sort of floating in the heel. Lift isn’t the issue, but rather it’s a lack of lateral security. This is compounded by another issue, the narrow footprint of the shoe at ground level, particularly in the heel. I feel as though a few more millimeters of width in the heel where it hits the ground could make the aft part of the shoe feel more stable. I definitely feel more stable staying up toward the front of the shoe. If I get back on the heel, particularly in technical sections, it gets a little squirrelly. While the outsole is plenty grippy, the long, widely spaced lugs do mean less rubber meets the terrain on stuff like wet roots, so there are some limitations compared to a less aggressive lug pattern. Also, the front of the shoe could be a little more breathable, but YMMV.Overall this is a solid shoe that moves along very well. I am definitely enjoying them and still am figuring them out for my applications. The bad things I listed are in no way deal breakers, but I do feel a couple minor changes could make this shoe a true max cushion technical terrain beast. As it is, you can cruise up to moderate terrain for hours in total comfort.
I am on my second pair and it's probably my favorite trail running shoe. I feel confident and comfortable in this shoe on any terrain including technical, steep mountain trails. Traction is excellent. Stability is very good for a shoe with this stack height. Comfort is where this shoe shines. The midsole reminds me of the EVO Speedgoat, just the right balance of cushion and responsiveness. I have high arches and get plenty of support. The only complaint I have is the durability. I got about 280 miles out of my first pair before the upper blew out. I almost didn't buy a second pair because of this, but the shoe is so good in every other way that I had to. Hoping to get more miles out of my second pair.
Definitely lighter than the GTex model, with a pliable upper that hugs the foot nicely. Good heel hold with proper lacing. Appreciate the waterproof surround of the midsole. These took a few kms in the trails to soften up a bit, now? They're fast, agile, and responsive. I'd place these at *almost* ultra-level shoes. Grip is aggressive but not clumsy/catchy, sheds muck easily. Realy a great high-performance trail shoe with all the right stuff. Bought these to replace my (sadly now dead) Saucony Xodus-Ultra V.1, this years V.2 just didn't cut it. The Peak5 are *very* similar in all the right ways and then some; not as light, or soft hitting, but they make up for it in feeling super solid underfoot and balanced.
Right out of the box the Agility Peak 5 is comfortable and lightweight. First run was a 17 miler on dirt forest roads and single track with roots. Traction is superb, even in wet sloppy terrain. There a little things about this shoe that I love, including the flexible wrap around in the midfoot region - this contributes to a wonderful fit and a secure feeling that provides confidence on gnarly terrain. What surprised me most is that when I had to cross paved roads, the shoe felt really well cushioned even on the pavement. There is an elastic shoe lace holder - something simple - but it keeps the laces out the way and prevents them from becoming untied. The ride is remarkably stable but I still have adequate proprioception - something critical for an elite trail ... MoreRight out of the box the Agility Peak 5 is comfortable and lightweight. First run was a 17 miler on dirt forest roads and single track with roots. Traction is superb, even in wet sloppy terrain. There a little things about this shoe that I love, including the flexible wrap around in the midfoot region - this contributes to a wonderful fit and a secure feeling that provides confidence on gnarly terrain. What surprised me most is that when I had to cross paved roads, the shoe felt really well cushioned even on the pavement. There is an elastic shoe lace holder - something simple - but it keeps the laces out the way and prevents them from becoming untied. The ride is remarkably stable but I still have adequate proprioception - something critical for an elite trail shoe. This shoe is under marketed - it is far better than the best selling Hoka Speedgoat - and more versatile.
I got this to replace a Saucony Xodus Ultra 2 as my long distance shoe. I live in Colorado and run a variety of trails including off trail excursions in the mountains. This shoe is very good but falls short in a few key areas.PROS:-midsole. Really nice balance of cushion and protection (with rock plate) while not feeling too clunky/sticky and having some decent trail feel and response.-outsole. Can’t beat it. The lug design and Vibram megagrip put Saucony’s outsole compound to shame. Nice to feel so secure and confident on any terrain-upper comfort. The upper feels durable and supportive and also drains water very well. I was ankle deep in water and I was impressed with how quickly water drained out of the shoe. I think this also translates to good ... MoreI got this to replace a Saucony Xodus Ultra 2 as my long distance shoe. I live in Colorado and run a variety of trails including off trail excursions in the mountains. This shoe is very good but falls short in a few key areas.PROS:-midsole. Really nice balance of cushion and protection (with rock plate) while not feeling too clunky/sticky and having some decent trail feel and response.-outsole. Can’t beat it. The lug design and Vibram megagrip put Saucony’s outsole compound to shame. Nice to feel so secure and confident on any terrain-upper comfort. The upper feels durable and supportive and also drains water very well. I was ankle deep in water and I was impressed with how quickly water drained out of the shoe. I think this also translates to good breathability-performance. This is an ultra distance shoe that feels nimble and secure in technical terrain. Merrell is really threading a vital needle here.. almostCONS-lockdown/fit: as many “industry” reviewers have noted, the fit is a touch sloppy in the heel, and for me, midfoot, which leads to challenges with lock down. It can be workable with lace tightening but I’m always getting mild lace bite. Ive always had hot spots and blisters forming which I’ve never had with a Saucony shoe. Though for me, this issue is not nearly as bad as it was in the Speedgoat 5 for me .-ankle collar comfort. The ankle collar feels a bit rough and firm which leaves my ankles, especially ankle bones, feeling a bit beat up. I don’t know if the ankle collar rides a touch high, but and trail surfaces that are not flat, and especially side-hilling, the ankle collar really digs into my ankle bone. In comparison, I love the feel of the MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx ankle.I really like this shoe and want to love it, but some of the comfort issues will limits its use for me. Comparing to the Xodus Ultra 2, the Agility Peak 5 surely wins in the outsole and durability departments—which is a liability for big mountain work. But the AP5 fails in the comfort area, especially in uneven/sidehill terrain, which is a liability in big mountain terrain.I hope to get great use out of this shoe but sadly im not sure it will accompany me on long days in rugged mountain terrain. I hope the eventual AP6 might
Fantastic shoe right out of the box. Much like a pair of Hoka Speedgoat 3's I ran in 5 years ago these have been a delight. Having run about 400k in them to this point they're still my go to for comfort and confidence in rugged terrain for long days. The upper has held up well while bombing through mountain scree and talus and the Vibram mega grip is a no brainer. Fantastic traction, and so far great durability in the sole. My only knock on the Agility Peak 5 would be midsole, more specifically the outside edges of it. The shoes still have wonderful cushioning at 400k, but the scree and rocks are doing a number on the exterior edges of the foam. Lastly, I haven't experienced the heal slippage as other reviewers, even though I size my shoes with a full thumbs width ... MoreFantastic shoe right out of the box. Much like a pair of Hoka Speedgoat 3's I ran in 5 years ago these have been a delight. Having run about 400k in them to this point they're still my go to for comfort and confidence in rugged terrain for long days. The upper has held up well while bombing through mountain scree and talus and the Vibram mega grip is a no brainer. Fantastic traction, and so far great durability in the sole. My only knock on the Agility Peak 5 would be midsole, more specifically the outside edges of it. The shoes still have wonderful cushioning at 400k, but the scree and rocks are doing a number on the exterior edges of the foam. Lastly, I haven't experienced the heal slippage as other reviewers, even though I size my shoes with a full thumbs width in front of my big toe, but I always finish my laces off with a runners loop and utilize the extra lace hole at the top.
I received my shoes right before camping and taking two hikes in the Ruby Mountains outside of Elko, Nevada. I was so very pleased to have them on these technical hikes!We walked over boulders, across streams, through shallow mud, and then over mostly packed snow; my Agility Peak 5’s got a thorough test and passed with flying colors! I never once slipped or lost my footing, didn’t need my regular shoe inserts, and my feet were comfortable every step of the way.I also appreciated the rubber edge that took the scrapes (but doesn’t show it) instead of the fabric on the side of the shoes, that’s durability built in. My husband’s running shoes didn’t fare so well and were very ragged afterward.I normally wear a size 8, but bought these in an 8.5 so that I can wear ... MoreI received my shoes right before camping and taking two hikes in the Ruby Mountains outside of Elko, Nevada. I was so very pleased to have them on these technical hikes!We walked over boulders, across streams, through shallow mud, and then over mostly packed snow; my Agility Peak 5’s got a thorough test and passed with flying colors! I never once slipped or lost my footing, didn’t need my regular shoe inserts, and my feet were comfortable every step of the way.I also appreciated the rubber edge that took the scrapes (but doesn’t show it) instead of the fabric on the side of the shoes, that’s durability built in. My husband’s running shoes didn’t fare so well and were very ragged afterward.I normally wear a size 8, but bought these in an 8.5 so that I can wear heavier socks in cold weather and for when my feet swell.
To start with, the traction on these is absolutely world class. It's as good as you're likely to find on any trail shoe at any price from any manufacturer. And there are other really nice features as well, such as the gaiter attachments and the lace loops, which are fabulous at keeping them from coming untied. My feet are on the wide side of average and the fit is comfortably snug. The lockdown is good enough that I don't smash my toes into the front of the toe boxes on the descents, which is a problem I have in a lot of other shoes. In general, they perform above expectations.I have exactly two gripes with them that keeps me from giving them 5 stars. The first is that the lace design makes it easy to get an uncomfortable tight spot right at the top. As such, I ... MoreTo start with, the traction on these is absolutely world class. It's as good as you're likely to find on any trail shoe at any price from any manufacturer. And there are other really nice features as well, such as the gaiter attachments and the lace loops, which are fabulous at keeping them from coming untied. My feet are on the wide side of average and the fit is comfortably snug. The lockdown is good enough that I don't smash my toes into the front of the toe boxes on the descents, which is a problem I have in a lot of other shoes. In general, they perform above expectations.I have exactly two gripes with them that keeps me from giving them 5 stars. The first is that the lace design makes it easy to get an uncomfortable tight spot right at the top. As such, I find that I have to retie them two or three times whenever I put them on. The second is that the firm midsole, relatively high stack, and relatively narrow profile makes it super easy to roll an ankle if you're not paying attention. Neither of these are deal breakers.Anyway, I'm super happy with them and will be ordering more as soon as I wear these out.
Bought for serious trail running but other chronic injuries have precluded too many miles there… for the moment…but I have worn them for hiking many, many miles, outdoor cycling, walking for days on trips, a couple of indoor/outdoor workouts, some shorter (3-5 mile easier trail runs) and they are my favorite running shoes of all time.I have higher arches that always require a custom orthotic-not needed for these. Narrow heel, narrower than average, low volume feet just love these shoes. Grip has been excellent on every type of terrain but haven’t tried snow. LOL. So stable, excellent cushion while still providing firm support. I was worried the thin tongue would bother my low volume feet but nope, with decent hiking or running socks they are totally fine. Now I ... MoreBought for serious trail running but other chronic injuries have precluded too many miles there… for the moment…but I have worn them for hiking many, many miles, outdoor cycling, walking for days on trips, a couple of indoor/outdoor workouts, some shorter (3-5 mile easier trail runs) and they are my favorite running shoes of all time.I have higher arches that always require a custom orthotic-not needed for these. Narrow heel, narrower than average, low volume feet just love these shoes. Grip has been excellent on every type of terrain but haven’t tried snow. LOL. So stable, excellent cushion while still providing firm support. I was worried the thin tongue would bother my low volume feet but nope, with decent hiking or running socks they are totally fine. Now I must decide-buy a back up pair or see if somehow the next version is even better? Merrell for hiking boots, trail runners, and hiking sandals. One of my absolute favorite brands for my goofy feet. Comfort and fit are my primary concerns these days but hey, they also look very cool.
I got turned on by these shoes from a youtuber who does ultras. I've worn Brooks Cascadia's for many years and thought I'd give them a try. Obvious when reviewing, we're looking at cost vs. quality, and this shoe is coming in fairly pricey compared to a lot of well established trail shoes, so that factors into the review.They aren't necessarily terrible shoes but they're far off from a quality ultra shoe at this price range and need some more development. Initial thoughts on the first run:The sole is quite narrow compare to a lot of other trail shoes. Right away, you'll notice that 1/3 of your arch is over the sole leading to a very unstable ground strike, especially in technical trails. The lugs are quite poorly designed, however I must advise that I wear a size ... MoreI got turned on by these shoes from a youtuber who does ultras. I've worn Brooks Cascadia's for many years and thought I'd give them a try. Obvious when reviewing, we're looking at cost vs. quality, and this shoe is coming in fairly pricey compared to a lot of well established trail shoes, so that factors into the review.They aren't necessarily terrible shoes but they're far off from a quality ultra shoe at this price range and need some more development. Initial thoughts on the first run:The sole is quite narrow compare to a lot of other trail shoes. Right away, you'll notice that 1/3 of your arch is over the sole leading to a very unstable ground strike, especially in technical trails. The lugs are quite poorly designed, however I must advise that I wear a size 14, so its possible that not much thought has gone into scaling up the lugs to such a large sole. The lugs are quite slippery on asphalt when wet, secondly when you step on the outer part of the sole (for example technical rock section) the lugs and padding give away and almost feel like they launch your foot. It was quite uneasy traversing technical rocks on the run.The main padding is directly under the heel and arch and give away quite quickly towards the toe. They feel a bit like wearing those stretchers fit shoes. As a mid foot strike, I was constantly fighting the shoe not to roll left or right on me. I've always had a neutral strike, and if you don't strike perfect, the shoe feels like it will launch your foot in that direction.The top part felt good and the heel was alright. Again, its a bit loose, and undersigned; something I expect from a 100.00 trail trainer (tier B shoe).If you like Merrell fitting shoes, and need a hiking, casual knock around shoe, they'll work. As a Ultra trail running shoe for 150.00, I can't recommend them. There are a lot of better, stable shoes on the market.
