Lightweight Trail-Running Shoes

Merrell Launches Its New the MTL Skyfire 2 Shoes

Merell has released its latest lightweight trail-running shoes called the MTL Skyfire 2. Merrell Product Line Manager Jon Sanregret said: "The MTL Skyfire 2 is the lightest plated trail running shoe on the market, and its innovation comes in the form of extreme use capability. Like a track spike for the mountain, it has a unique blend of traction, under-foot protection and agility that lends itself perfectly to vertical mountain race environments and athletes looking to run far and fast."

The MTL Skyfire 2 was designed with Merrell athletes, including Ragna Debats, Reid Burrows, and more. The shoes were also made in an ideal blend of abrasion resistance, similar to hiking shoes. The shoes weigh under 7 oz while maintaining 5 mm lugs and customized webbed Vibram soles for extra traction. Its two-part, dual-density FloatPro Foam midsole offers comfort with the engineered ultralight FlexPlate. The shoes also come in TPU uppers with a 100 percent recycled lacing system and 100 percent recycled mesh footbed cover. The MTL Skyfire 2 is available for purchase.

Image Credit: Merrell

Lightweight Trail-running Shoes
The trend of designing and producing lightweight and durable trail running shoes with high performance capability, particularly in vertical mountain race environments.
Abrasion Resistant Shoes
The trend of producing shoes with abrasion resistance technology that can withstand harsh trail conditions during frequent or prolonged usage.
Sustainable Footwear Materials
The trend of using sustainable materials in the production of shoes for environmentally conscious customers who a searching for eco-friendly and sustainable options.

Where This Applies

Athletic Equipment Industry
The athletic equipment industry can invest in research and development targeted at manufacturing lightweight, abrasion-resistant and high-performance trail running shoes, to meet the growing demand from the market.
Sustainable Apparel Industry
The sustainable apparel industry can leverage on the trend of producing footwear with materials that promote environmental sustainability, reducing carbon footprint and attracting eco-conscious consumers, to gain a competitive edge.
Footwear Manufacturing Industry
The footwear manufacturing industry can invest in technological advances that enhance the production of lightweight, durable and high-performance trail running shoes, to offer customers quality products with higher performance capabilities.
SCORE
4.4 out of 10
GENDER
50% Men50% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa
GENERATION
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen Z (primary audience)
  • Millennial (primary audience)
  • Gen X (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 53%
Activity 62%
Freshness 17%

Solutions for innovators working at the edge of change. We help transform emerging ideas into practical, durable solutions by combining strategic thinking, creative exploration, and hands-on execution.

Trends © 2026 Trend Hunter Inc. All Rights Reserved.
LinkedIn Instagram X