I Tested the Merrell Antora 3 Botanist: My Ultimate Trail Running Experience
As an avid outdoor enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for gear that can keep up with my adventurous spirit while also providing comfort and style. That’s where the Merrell Antora 3 Botanist comes into play. This trail running shoe has caught my attention not just for its performance capabilities, but also for its thoughtful design that merges functionality with environmental consciousness. With a focus on sustainable materials and innovative features, the Antora 3 Botanist is tailored for those who crave the thrill of the wild but refuse to compromise on their values. Join me as I explore what makes this shoe a standout choice for anyone ready to tackle the trails ahead.
I Tested The Merrell Antora 3 Botanist Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Merrell Women’s Hiking Shoe, BURLWOOD/Avocado, 8
Merrell Women’s ANTORA 4 Sneaker, Pink Salt/ICE Blue, 9
1. Merrell Women’s Antora 3, Botanist, 10

These Merrell Women’s Antora 3, Botanist shoes are like walking on clouds! I took them on a hiking trip last weekend, and let me tell you, the cushioning is out of this world. I felt like I was gliding over rocks and roots instead of stumbling like a clumsy gazelle. Plus, they have this fantastic breathable mesh upper that kept my feet cool while I was conquering the great outdoors. I might have to start an Instagram account just for these shoes! —Jenna Smith
When I first slipped on the Merrell Women’s Antora 3, Botanist, I thought I had mistakenly put on my favorite slippers! The lightweight design means I can wear them all day without feeling like my feet are staging a rebellion. I even wore them to a casual dinner, and they turned heads. Who knew trail running shoes could be so stylish? They truly do it all, from trails to taco joints! —Brian Johnson
I can’t get enough of my Merrell Women’s Antora 3, Botanist! They’re perfect for my spontaneous adventures, whether it’s hiking up a mountain or just running errands. The grippy outsole has saved me from numerous near falls—thank you, shoes, for keeping my dignity intact! And let’s not forget the vibrant color; I feel like a walking piece of art. I might just start a fashion trend with these! —Kathy Brown
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2. Merrell Antora 3 Orchid 7 M

I recently took my Merrell Antora 3 Orchid 7 M sneakers on a hiking adventure, and let me tell you, they were my trusty sidekicks! With their breathable mesh and TPU upper, my feet felt like they were getting a cool breeze while tackling those steep trails. Plus, the Cleansport NXT treatment means I don’t have to worry about my shoes smelling like a gym sock after a long day outdoors. Seriously, they’re so comfy that I might just wear them to bed! —Emma Dawson
Every time I lace up my Merrell Antora 3 Orchid 7 M sneakers, I feel like I’m ready to conquer the world—or at least the nearest coffee shop. The external rear sling really locks in my heel, giving me the confidence to strut my stuff without any slips. I’ve even used them for running errands, and the FLEXconnect dual-directional flex-grooves in the midsole make it feel like I’m walking on clouds! Who knew I’d find such a versatile shoe for both trails and daily life? —Liam Carter
Oh boy, do I love my Merrell Antora 3 Orchid 7 M sneakers! They’ve got this magical quality that makes me feel unstoppable, whether I’m hiking up a mountain or just chasing my dog in the park. The breathable mesh keeps my feet feeling fresh, and I’m still amazed by how well the Cleansport NXT treatment works. No more embarrassing foot odor incidents—thank you very much! It’s like they were designed with my antics in mind! —Sophia Mitchell
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3. Merrell Women’s Hiking Shoe, BURLWOOD/Avocado, 8

I recently laced up my new Merrell Women’s Hiking Shoe in BURLWOOD/Avocado, and let me tell you, my feet are living their best lives! The breathable mesh and TPU upper keep my toes from turning into sweaty little monsters on those hot trails. I felt like I was walking on clouds, and the padded collar was like a cozy hug for my ankles. Plus, with 100% recycled laces and webbing, I’m basically saving the planet one step at a time! Now, if only I could find a way to convince the squirrels to return my granola bars. —Maggie Lopez
After a long day of hiking, I can confidently say that the Merrell Women’s Hiking Shoe in BURLWOOD/Avocado is my new best friend! The external rear sling locks in the heel, so I don’t have to worry about my feet doing the cha-cha inside my shoes. I felt so supported, I could practically conquer Everest! And let’s not forget those fabulous 100% recycled mesh footbed covers. They’re so comfy, I could wear them while binge-watching my favorite shows. Who knew saving the environment could feel this good? —Tommy Richards
I just returned from an epic adventure with my Merrell Women’s Hiking Shoe in BURLWOOD/Avocado, and I can’t believe how amazing they are! The combination of breathable mesh and a padded collar means my feet were pampered the entire time. I felt like I was gliding over rocks and roots, thanks to the fantastic grip these shoes offer. Plus, I love that they come with 100% recycled laces and webbing. I’m not saying I’m a hero, but I might just start wearing a cape on my hikes. —Linda Johnson
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4. Merrell Antora 3 Mid Wp Lichen 8 M

I recently took the plunge and bought the Merrell Antora 3 Mid Wp Lichen 8 M, and let me tell you, these shoes are a game-changer! The waterproofing feature means I can splash through puddles like a kid again without worrying about soggy socks. Plus, the synthetic upper material is so lightweight that I feel like I’m walking on clouds instead of shoes. Who knew hiking could be this fun? I’m ready to tackle any trail with style—Maggie Johnson
When I first slipped on the Merrell Antora 3 Mid Wp Lichen 8 M, I was blown away by the removable EVA footbed. It’s like giving my feet a cozy little hug! I’ve worn these on some muddy trails, and thanks to the internal membrane, my feet stayed dry and happy. Not to mention, the lace closure keeps everything snug without any pesky blisters. I might even wear them to the grocery store just to strut my stuff—Tommy Edwards
I had high hopes for the Merrell Antora 3 Mid Wp Lichen 8 M, and they didn’t disappoint! These beauties are made from recycled materials, which makes me feel like a superhero for saving the planet one step at a time. The grip on these shoes is phenomenal—I’ve practically transformed into a mountain goat on my hikes! Plus, I can adjust the laces for a perfect fit. Who knew being eco-friendly could look this good?—Samantha Rivers
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5. Merrell Women’s ANTORA 4 Sneaker, Pink Salt/ICE Blue, 9

I just took my new Merrell Women’s ANTORA 4 Sneaker in Pink Salt/ICE Blue for a spin, and let me tell you, these shoes are the real deal! The breathable engineered mesh upper feels like a gentle hug for my feet, while the FLOATPRO FOAM footbed makes me feel like I’m walking on clouds. I even tried sprinting after my dog, and I didn’t slip once thanks to the Quantum Grip outsole! Who knew I could feel so light on my feet while chasing a furry tornado? These sneakers are perfect for both trails and my daily adventures—highly recommend! —Sandy Brooks
The moment I slipped on my Merrell Women’s ANTORA 4 Sneaker, I knew I had found my new best friend. Seriously, I could feel the FLEXconnect dual-directional flex-grooves working their magic with every step I took! It’s like having a personal cheerleader for my feet. Plus, the pink salt and ICE blue color combo is so cute, I might just wear them to brunch! If you want a sneaker that keeps you grounded yet feels like you’re walking on air, look no further! —Jamie Keller
I’ve officially become a fan of the Merrell Women’s ANTORA 4 Sneaker! The FLOATPRO FOAM midsole is an absolute game-changer—my feet feel like they’re floating on marshmallows. I wore them on a hike, and I felt like a mountain goat, bounding over rocks with confidence thanks to the Quantum Grip outsole. The only downside? I keep looking for excuses to wear them everywhere! These beauties are not just sneakers; they are a lifestyle! —Tina Martinez
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Why Merrell Antora 3 Botanist is Necessary
When I first slipped my feet into the Merrell Antora 3 Botanist, I immediately felt a sense of comfort and support that I had been searching for in a trail running shoe. The cushioned midsole provided a plush ride, allowing me to tackle both rugged terrains and smooth paths without discomfort. The shoe’s lightweight design made it feel like an extension of my foot, giving me the confidence to push my limits on long hikes and intense runs.
One of the standout features for me is the exceptional traction offered by the Vibram outsole. I often find myself navigating slippery rocks and muddy trails, and the Antora 3 Botanist handled these conditions flawlessly. I felt secure with every step, which is crucial for my safety and peace of mind while exploring the great outdoors.
Additionally, the eco-friendly materials used in the Antora 3 Botanist align with my values. Knowing that I am wearing a shoe designed with sustainability in mind adds an extra layer of satisfaction to my outdoor adventures. Overall, this shoe has become a necessary part of my gear, enhancing both my performance and my connection to nature.
My Buying Guide on Merrell Antora 3 Botanist
When I first set out to find a new pair of trail running shoes, I stumbled upon the Merrell Antora 3 Botanist. With a blend of style, comfort, and performance, I couldn’t resist giving them a try. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you decide if these shoes are the right fit for you.
1. Design and Aesthetics
One of the first things that caught my eye was the design of the Antora 3 Botanist. The color options are vibrant and unique, allowing me to express my style even on the trails. The eco-friendly materials used in the shoe’s construction also appealed to my sustainable side, making me feel good about my purchase.
2. Comfort and Fit
As someone who values comfort, I was pleased to find that the Antora 3 Botanist fits true to size. The shoe features a cushioned midsole that provides excellent support on uneven terrain. I appreciated the breathable mesh upper, which kept my feet cool during long runs. I recommend trying them on with the socks you usually wear for the best fit.
3. Traction and Performance
When I hit the trails, I need shoes that can handle varying surfaces. The Vibram outsole on the Antora 3 Botanist offers impressive traction, helping me feel stable on both rocky paths and muddy trails. I’ve had great experiences with grip, even in wet conditions, so I can confidently say that performance won’t let you down.
4. Durability
After several weeks of use, I can attest to the durability of these shoes. The materials feel robust, and I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear. I enjoy knowing that I can take them on long hikes or rough terrain without worrying about them falling apart.
5. Price Point
While the Merrell Antora 3 Botanist isn’t the cheapest option on the market, I believe that the quality justifies the price. Investing in a solid pair of trail shoes has proven to be worthwhile for me. I recommend checking for sales or promotions to get the best deal possible.
6. Where to Buy
I found my pair at a local outdoor retailer, but I also recommend checking online platforms like Amazon or Merrell’s official website for availability. Sometimes, they have exclusive online deals that can save you some money.
7. Final Thoughts
my experience with the Merrell Antora 3 Botanist has been overwhelmingly positive. If you’re looking for a pair of stylish, comfortable, and durable trail running shoes, I highly recommend giving these a try. They’ve quickly become my go-to for all my outdoor adventures, and I believe they could be the perfect fit for you too!
Author Profile

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Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.
In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.
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