# Mission-Driven Hiking Footwear Merrell and BBBSA Collaborated on a Special Moab Speed 2 By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2024-12-02 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moab-speed-2 References: [stocktitan.net](https://www.stocktitan.net/news/WWW/merrell-big-brothers-big-sisters-of-america-design-iconic-hiker-to-x9t4aksi9idl.html)  [Merrell](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-and-jeep) and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America ([BBBSA](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bbbsa)) teamed up to launch an exclusive, limited-edition [Moab Speed 2](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-house-of-dragon) design that inspires confidence, enjoyment of outdoor multi-sport activities and a sense of togetherness. The Moab Speed 2 debuted as the latest innovation in hiking from Merrell, and it was inspired by insights from athletic hikers around the world. This special edition design was inspired by a Merrell team member who volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and it was designed to deliver traction and long-lasting comfort so that both Bigs and Littles can wear the style. According to data from BBBSA, 90% of Littles participating in the BBBS program report feeling healthier and happier when surrounded by nature, and 79% report a boost in self-confidence. Merrell will donate $10 for each pair of shoes sold to support Big Brothers Big Sisters. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 7.1/10 - Popularity: 88% | Activity: 93% | Freshness: 32% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Mission-driven Features:** Hiking footwear that combines performance with philanthropic elements is gaining traction. - **Collaborative Design:** Partnerships between well-known brands and charitable organizations create unique product offerings that resonate with consumers. - **Outdoor-enhanced Wellbeing:** Products promoting outdoor activities can significantly improve physical and mental wellbeing among users. ### Who This Affects Most - **Outdoor Gear:** There's a growing demand for hiking footwear that caters to both performance and altruistic considerations. - **Sportswear:** Sportswear companies are increasingly collaborating with nonprofits to design exclusive, mission-driven apparel. - **Philanthropic Retail:** Retail initiatives that tie purchases to charitable donations appeal to socially conscious consumers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Automotive-Inspired Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-and-jeep.md) - [Weatherized Limited Footwear Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moab-speed-2-gtx.md) - [Sunset-Inspired Tonal Hiking Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moab-3.md) - [Women-Centric Hiking Clubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hiking-club.md) - [Collaboration Automotive-Branded Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-moab-3-mid-x-jeep.md) - [Urban-Inspired Hiking Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-1trl-and-corridor.md) - [Technical Footwear Collaborations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/belstaff-and-merrell.md) - [Chunky Dynamic Trail Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/speedarc-surge-boa.md) - [Waterproof Gorpcore Sneaker Styles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-moab-speed-2-goretex.md)