The Verterra’s have been my steady companion for the past month.
First and foremost, they are extremely comfortable. I particularly like the way they felt against my feet when I pulled the laces tight. And boy can you hike quickly in them. In actual fact these are hiking boots you can actually run in. They’re also extremely well made – I can’t find any issue with the quality of any of the materials used. The toe box has rubber protection and it’s been doing its job; but there are a few scratches in this material (see below). It means the Verterra’s will take on a rugged, worn character the more you use them. Note the ventilated area which is waterproof thanks to a lining of Gore-tex.
A word of note, there are two versions of the Verterra. There’s the Verterra Mid Sport GTX which has Gore-tex in them (£130) and the Verterra Mid Waterproof (£120, so ten pounds less).
![Merrell's BOUNDTRK system is superb](http://adventure52.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_0036-600x337.jpg)
Merrell’s BOUNDTRK system is superb
![Red stitching as well as a token nod to it having Gore-tex](http://adventure52.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_0037-600x337.jpg)
We like that red stitching. Tab shows it has GORE-TEX and CONNECTfit
![And these chunky, metal loops are very pleasing](http://adventure52.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_0038-600x337.jpg)
These chunky, metal loops are very pleasing
![Lacing system gives equal pressure across the top of the foot](http://adventure52.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_0039-600x337.jpg)
Lacing system gives equal pressure across the top of the foot
![Familiar styling that extends across the entire Merrell range](http://adventure52.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_0041-600x337.jpg)
Familiar styling that extends across the entire Merrell range
![Amazing grip pattern](http://adventure52.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_0042-600x337.jpg)
Amazing grip pattern
VERDICT
“A rugged trainer-like hiking boot that’s ideal for every-day wearing and energetic activities this winter. Best of all you can run in them.”