Merrell Agility Peak 5 Trail Running Shoe Review: Cushion, Grip, and Comfort for Demanding Terrain

Merrell’s trail running lineup has long balanced ruggedness and runner-friendly comfort, and the Merrell Agility Peak 5 Trail Running Shoe continues that tradition with modern upgrades that push it deeper into long-distance territory. With aggressive lugs, increased stack height, and a Rock Plate for underfoot protection, this shoe is built for hard efforts across rocky paths, rolling forest tracks, and alpine conditions.

Designed for technical trail runners who value grip, cushioning, and foot security across varied terrain, we tested the Agility Peak 5 over 250km of trails in the Lake District, Snowdonia, and Scottish Highlands to determine how it compares to its predecessor and whether it justifies the premium positioning.

Specifications Overview

Design and Build

At first glance, the Agility Peak 5 looks chunkier than many trail runners — but the bulk is functional rather than ornamental. The engineered mesh upper combines flexibility with support, aided by TPU overlays around the midfoot and heel. It’s breathable in warm conditions and dries reasonably fast after stream crossings or muddy exposures.

A protective toe cap gives confidence on rocky descents, and the padded collar ensures ankle comfort without overly locking down movement. The heel counter is firm, stabilising landings without irritating the Achilles.

The shoe uses a half-gaiter style tongue, which integrates nicely into the upper and blocks small debris — ideal for dry, dusty trails or chalky gravel tracks.

Fit and Comfort

The Agility Peak 5 fits true to size, with a medium volume that suits most foot shapes:

• Toe box is roomy without being sloppy, giving toes room to splay on longer efforts.
• Midfoot lockdown is secure via flat laces and a well-shaped tongue, without creating pressure points.
• Heel hold is precise — no slipping even on steep inclines or sidehill traverses.

Our testers reported strong comfort during 3+ hour trail runs, with no hotspots or heel rub. The shoe strikes a balance between cushion and ground feel, particularly appreciated on hard-packed terrain or long descents.

Cushioning and Midsole Performance

The standout improvement in the Agility Peak 5 is the midsole. Merrell upgraded to a full-length FloatPro™ foam — softer and bouncier than previous versions — layered above a FlexPlate Rock Plate for protection.

• Landings feel well-cushioned across both forefoot and heel
• There’s a mild rocker effect aiding forward momentum on flatter trails
• The rock plate is protective but doesn’t make the ride stiff or unresponsive
• Foam retains energy and doesn’t flatten over longer runs

Compared to competitors like the Saucony Peregrine or Altra Lone Peak, the Agility Peak 5 feels more plush, but still offers enough ground contact for responsive foot placement.

Grip and Traction

Equipped with Vibram® Megagrip and 5mm directional lugs, the outsole is among the most confidence-inspiring in its weight class:

• Traction excels on wet rock, muddy inclines, and scree
• Lug design sheds debris efficiently — no mud clogging even on steep hills
• Durability is excellent after more than 250km, with minimal wear on high-impact zones
• Side traction under the arch improves stability on uneven cambers

We tested the shoe on descents over slick limestone and steep rooty climbs in North Wales. Grip was reliable, braking power was consistent, and lateral control was far better than expected for a cushioned shoe.

Protection and Stability

With an 8mm drop and underfoot rock plate, the Agility Peak 5 offers dependable protection for technical terrain:

• FlexPlate system disperses impact over the entire sole
• Toe guard keeps kicks against stone or root from stinging
• Stack height is generous, but the sole geometry prevents excessive ankle roll

On uneven terrain and long trail missions, it supports stable foot landings, even when fatigue sets in. While not as nimble as some low-stack shoes, it adds confidence, particularly on rock gardens and forest descents.

Breathability and Water Handling

• The mesh upper vents well in dry conditions
• Material sheds light moisture effectively, but isn’t waterproof
• No drain ports — water exits through the mesh during movement
• Drying time is moderate — not the fastest in category but acceptable for most UK trail conditions

During a 15km run through wet trails and shallow creek crossings, we found that water cleared quickly from the shoe. Pairing with synthetic socks helped maintain comfort post-soak.

Comparisons: Merrell Agility Peak 5 vs Alternatives

The Agility Peak 5 combines Speedgoat-level cushion with Peregrine-like grip — a versatile balance that suits most UK mountain runners, fell runners and long-distance trail enthusiasts.

Pros

• Excellent grip on wet and uneven terrain
• Well-cushioned for long efforts without losing trail feedback
• FloatPro foam offers energetic ride and comfort
• Durable build and rugged mesh upper
• Good toe protection and lockdown fit
• Rock Plate delivers strong underfoot stability

Cons

• Slightly heavier than minimalist trail runners
• Less nimble on tight switchbacks or fast technical descents
• Midsole foam can feel bouncy for runners who prefer firmer ride
• No waterproof membrane for sustained wet conditions

Final Verdict

The Merrell Agility Peak 5 Trail Running Shoe delivers comfort, protection, and standout traction for runners tackling demanding terrain. Its plush midsole and aggressive grip make it a solid choice for long runs, mountain races, or fastpacking missions where confidence underfoot matters.

It’s not the lightest or most minimal, but its ability to combine cushion, grip, and support in a durable build make it a top-tier option for serious trail runners who want a capable all-rounder.

Rating: 9.2/10
Best For: Long-distance trail running, mountain missions, wet terrain
Avoid If: You prefer minimalist shoes or stiff, low-stack platforms