Merrell MTL Skyfire 2 Review

Hey guys, it's Alastair from Trail and Kale, and today I'm reviewing the Merrell MTL Skyfire 2, an elite trail running shoe designed for fast mountain running in technical terrain. Are these $200 trail running shoes worth the price? Watch to the end to find out!
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🇺🇸 USA ($140) / 🇬🇧 UK (£170): www.trailandkale.com/go/merre...
In-Depth Blog Review: www.trailandkale.com/gear/mer...
Key Features:
- Design: Minimal, lightweight trail running shoes for fast mountain running.
- Price: 🇺🇸 USA ($140) / 🇬🇧 UK (£170)
- Fit and Feel: True to size with a medium width. Breathable TPU engineered mesh upper for excellent temperature regulation.
- Midsole: Two-part dual-density FloatPro foam with a lightweight flex plate for torsional rigidity and energy return.
- Outsole: Vibram Megagrip with 5mm aggressive lugs for exceptional traction.
- Drop: 6mm (25mm heel, 19mm toe)
- Weight: 7 oz (US Men's 9)
Performance Highlights:
- Climbing: Exceptional for steep ascents with incredible grip and energy return.
- Descending: Stable and responsive on technical downhills.
- Flat Sections: Fast and efficient with excellent forefoot stability.
- Overall: Ideal for high-paced racing up to 30 km (20 miles) and technical half marathon trail races.
Who Are They For?
- Trail Runners: Perfect for those who prioritize speed and performance on technical terrains.
- Minimalist Trail Runners: Ideal for runners who prefer minimal cushioning and a low stack height.
- Competitive Racers: Great for vertical kilometer races and fast half marathon trail races.
Best Alternatives:
- HOKA Speedgoat 6: More cushioning and a higher stack height for ultra running. • Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review
- Salomon S/LAB Pulsar 3: Similar responsive ride with excellent grip. • Salomon S/Lab Pulsar 3...
- Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx: Slightly more cushioning, ideal for longer distances and technical terrain. • Merrell MTL Long Sky 2...
Is It Worth $200?
For the right runner, absolutely! These shoes offer exceptional performance, breathability, and stability for technical terrain and high-paced trail races.
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🗣️ Got questions about the Merrell MTL Skyfire 2 or any other trail running gear? Drop them in the comments below, and I'll get back to you!
Thanks for watching, and I'll see you next time. Peace!
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[@TrailrunnerTroy]

Thank you, Alastair. Finished 1st place Saturday in a 55 K Ultra in the rugged mountains in NW New Mexico on the Navajo Nation. More than 8,000’ of vertical climbing with a corresponding 8,000’ descent. Considered the Long Sky 2 but chose the LaSportiva Prodigio, my favorite all-arounder of the year. It’s comparable to the Long Sky 2 but has better lockdown and more comfort. The Skyfire 2 is part of my rotation but only up to about 10 miles. Perhaps my foot strength will improve sufficiently so that the two Merrell models will eclipse the Prodigio, which is like a trail moccasin for me! I don’t win many races at age 60, so believe me the LaSportiva was a competitive advantage.

[@trailandkale]

That sounds like a fun ultra! And thanks for sharing your experience with the Skyfire 2! I actually have the Prodigio in for testing! Looking forward to taking them out soon :)

[@judewejchert8432]

Loved this shoe for 1 race probably the best sub half marathon trail shoe. But when using it for training the tpu upper fell apart when taking it on rocky mountain trails. It lasted about 70km before both shoes were torn up. I think merrell solved this with a new matryx upper version for the same price. Great review but i would recommend getting the matryx version 👍

[@trailandkale]

Thanks for sharing your experience with it! I have no doubt the MATRYX version would be more durable. Absolutely love that upper on the Long Sky 2 MATRYX I recently reviewed 👍🏼

[@trailandkale]

Drop any questions you may have in the comments 👋🏼 Always happy to help out our subscribers. -Alastair

[@trailandkale]

Oh and don't forget to let me know whether you prefer cushioned or responsive trail shoes!! :)

[@DNFADV]

How do these compare to the s/lab ultra 3 for downhill use . Slab shoes hold foot in place keeping my toes from rubbing into the front on down hills

[@trailandkale]

These are better than the s/lab pulsar 3. Better traction, and stability. Foot lock is good too

[@trailandkale]

Oh sorry I misread, thought you said pulsar 3 as that’s more of a similar shoe. The ultra 3 is heavier and not as good for fast mountain running.

[@trailandkale]

Here’s my full review of it: www.trailandkale.com/gear/salomon-s-lab-ultra-3-review/

[@DNFADV]

@@trailandkale good to know. I love my slab. ultra 3's best fitting shoe I've ever had. I will have to give these a whirl.

[@trailandkale]

@DNFADV let me know how you get on