Merrell Antora 4 Review: Could Every Trail Shoe Look This Good?

Introduction to the Merrell Antora 4

MELISSA: The Merrell Antora 4 is a women-specific trail shoe designed for moderate terrain and distances up to 50K. I would categorize this as an everyday running or recreational shoe, but I think it’s a solid option for beginner and recreational trail runners and hikers who prioritize comfort, versatility, and a reasonable price point.

ALLISON: Melissa’s take on the Merrell Antora 4 definitely mirrors my own first impressions of the shoe. Given my experience with the Merrell Morphlite, which I reviewed back in October and found a bit underwhelming, I approached the Antora 4 with cautious optimism.

However, I wanted to keep an open mind, especially since Merrell has been making a noticeable effort to expand its lineup beyond its well-established reputation for hiking and sky racing shoes. It’s exciting to see the brand venture further into the trail running space, offering more variety for different types of runners. With that in mind, I was eager to put the Antora 4 to the test and see if it could change my perception of Merrell’s trail running lineup.

What we like about the Merrell Antora 4

MELISSA:  Right away, I appreciated the sleek, eggshell colorway and clean design of the Antora 4 — so much so that I found myself wanting to wear it casually. The well-cushioned upper enhances overall comfort with a slightly flexible material that provides a secure lockdown without feeling overly tight or restrictive.

Despite its durable, trail-ready build, the Antora 4 feels surprisingly lightweight, making it a comfortable choice for short to medium runs on moderate terrain. It performs well across a variety of trail surfaces, offering reliable traction and stability. Additionally, the midsole and outsole provide ample protection from rocks, adding to its overall versatility.

ALLISON: From the moment I unboxed the Merrell Antora 4, I was immediately drawn to its aesthetic. While my pair wasn’t the eggshell colorway that Melissa had (which, let’s be real, wouldn’t have stayed clean for long given my trail habits — just check my Brooks reviews for proof), the baby blue shade was a refreshing change from the typical darker, earth-toned trail shoes I’ve worn in the past. It added a nice pop of color without being overly flashy, which I appreciated.

Beyond the looks, I was impressed by the lightweight feel of the Antora 4. Unlike bulkier, more rugged trail shoes, this one struck a great balance between comfort and agility. It felt nimble underfoot, making it a great option for runners who don’t want to feel weighed down. Another standout feature was the open, plush toe box, which was a noticeable improvement over the Morphlite. The extra space provided a comfortable fit, allowing my toes to splay naturally — an essential feature for trail runs. Actually, it reminded me of the Teva Trailwinder.

What we don’t like about the Merrell Antora 4

MELISSA: While the upper is comfortable and well-cushioned, it feels bulky with excess fabric around the heel, collar, and tongue. This leaves me concerned about how the shoe would handle extreme conditions like high heat or rain.

Although a higher drop works for some, it didn’t quite work for me, making the shoe less comfortable over longer runs. Additionally, the midsole felt stiff and unresponsive, with foam that leaned more on the firm side rather than offering a plush ride. While the Antora 4 performs decently on moderate trails, it lacks the flexibility and precision needed for more technical terrain. I found myself maxing out at around 8-10 miles before discomfort set in.

ALLISON: While Merrell’s marketing suggests that the Antora 4 could handle a 50K, I have to say that seems pretty ambitious. Honestly, I think they might have accidentally added an extra zero because, in my experience, this shoe is better suited for shorter distances. The initial miles felt comfortable, but as the run went on, I found myself craving more cushioning. The FloatPro midsole just didn’t provide the long-term support my feet needed, especially on extended efforts.

I see this as a solid choice for beginner trail runners who prioritize a lightweight feel and stylish design over technical performance. However, for those who frequently find themselves tripping over roots and rocks (we all know the “toe grabbers” out there), this might not be the best option. I felt every rock underfoot, and while some toe caps can feel overly rigid or distracting, the Antora 4 definitely needed more protection upfront for tackling more rugged terrain.

Final thoughts on the Merrell Antora 4

MELISSA: The Merrell Antora 4 is a solid choice for beginner trail runners and hikers looking for a comfortable, everyday trail shoe. Its lightweight feel, cushioned upper, and stylish design make it appealing for moderate trails and casual wear.

However, its bulkier upper, firm midsole, and higher drop may not work for everyone, especially those tackling longer distances or more technical terrain. If you’re looking for an entry-level trail shoe with a women-specific fit and a reasonable price point, the Antora 4 is worth considering — but if you need more responsiveness and flexibility, you might want to look elsewhere.

ALLISON: Like Melissa said, if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly or casual trail shoe, the Merrell Antora 4 is a solid choice, especially at the price point. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and visually appealing, making it a great option for those who want a no-fuss trail runner without excessive bulk.

This shoe truly shines on well-maintained surfaces, like rails-to-trails paths or groomed trails, where technical protection isn’t a major concern. While it may not be the best fit for long-distance efforts or rocky, uneven terrain, it’s a reliable pick for runners who prioritize comfort and style on less demanding trails.

You can pick up the Merrell Antora 4 for $130 from Merrell by using the button below.