Customer Reviews

Merrell Chameleon 3 Stretch GTX Kangaroo 7 Mens Shoes

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Ive had a few Chameleon shoes including the Chameleon 3 Stretch but decided to purchase the Gore-Tex version for the bad weather this winter.
One should be aware that the Gore-Tex version, when it comes out the box is stiffer than the non-Gore-Tex shoe. I did find them uncomfortable to start with and was about to return them but after about a 1 day, maybe 2 day's break in, they fit like a glove.
Dont be put off by the above information - trust me, you will be very pleased with the shoe after it is broken in. Just give them a days break in before your walk or hike.

I'm a sub contractor of all things construction. I'm on my feet all day over all sorts of terrain. These shoes are completely functional and have never let me down after 3 pairs. Highly recommended. You wont be unhappy with these shoes. Extremely comfortable.

I purchased these shoes for my husband. They served as a replacement for his old Merrell Chameleons. Same fit, same size. A great replacement! And Merrells last a VERY long time. So, I imagine we will not be shopping for another replacement for at least a couple of years.

I really like the fit and comfort of these shoes and the lazy man in me likes the slip on feature. Great for running outside quick, walking the dog, or wearing to the office when the weathers nasty. As has been written by others I've found the rubber used for the soles is slippery on hard wet surfaces, which I don't understand because my last pair had a similar looking tread from the same manufacturer and they weren't that way. Oh well, watch your step because otherwise these shoes are great. I got 3 years of 3 season wear out of the last pair here in upstate NY.

The Chameleon stretch model from Merrell is my favorite shoe. They take some time to break in but once broken in you will never want another shoe. I've worn them for casual wear, hiking, even in the mountains chasing elk. I'm on my second pair and will buy a third when these wear out, which takes a long time because they are a very durable and sturdy shoe. For me they rank right up there with Keen shoes for comfort but are a little more supportive and durable. Make sure to work them in properly, don't give up when they aren't the most comfortable right out of the box. Your patience will be rewarded.

These shoes are comfortable & durable with good grip. Easy on, easy off. Snug fit and nothing gets in. I haven't played off-road with them much yet, so I don't know how waterproof they are or how well they drain. The extensive use of rubber does tend to make the shoes a little heavier. The only problem is the laces; one broke the first time I put the shoes on. I replaced them with kevlar laces (from one of Merrell's competitors) and haven't had any problems. The laces are a design flaw on an otherwise great shoe.

Pros- "stretch" neoprene shoe molds specifically to your foot. It is extremely comfortable. It breathes well and has lots of cushion and support. Gore-tex is the way to go. This is what MAKES this shoe. Keeps your feet completely dry. Large puddles, muddy trails, and rain cannot penetrate the Gore-tex barrier. I bought one pair of Merrells that weren't gore-tex and quickly found out that they werent meant for much more than dry sidewalk walking. Last pro, they look cool a hell and are very very well made. There is no doubt once you pick up a pair that they'll last for years. My first pair of gore-text stretch merrells have over 3000 miles of walking in them. They are 5 years old and I STILL wear them. The last two pairs of Merrell that I have owned had very little grip to the soles. They were good Vibram soles but were kinda smooth. These have very grippy knubs on them. They are still Vibram soles, so they shouldn't wear out for a few years.

Cons- Compared to other Merrells that i've owned, these are kind of heavy. They are supposed to be light weight, but weigh as much as my last two pairs of Merrells combined. It makes for a clunky stride. The back heal support is way too rigid for me. I've never seen Merrells with such a tall rigid piece of rubber material on it. It digs into my heal a bit and initially is causing ankle problems. The sole (Vibram) is more stiff than other Merrells that i've owned. It doesnt have as much flex in it. hopefully the stiff sole and rigid ankle support will start to wear in and get more comfortable.

Other thoughts- this isnt' the 2011 model of shoe. This is last years model. The new Chameleon3 Stretch are no longer available with Gore-tex. They make a Chameleon3 Gore-tex, but it isnt the Stretch model and instead has a tongue with laces.

I'd like to give these shoes a 5 out of 5. The ONLY reason i'm giving them a 4 out of 5 is because of the stiff heal support cutting into my ankle. None of the other "cons" are enough of a reason to take away from how awesome of a shoe this really is.

They came quicker than I expected, I was worried about the size but they fit great. Wish I had ordered these earlier.

A little stiff but I assume they'll work out over time. Very tough like all the Merrell's I've owned. Went golfing 18 hours in the rain. Lightly damp, but did not get soaked like my buddies and their golf shoes and tennies. Now mine still look great. Kangaroo is a great color. I have only bought Merrell's in the last 4 years. If they keep making great quality I will pay the price, they last a lifetime.