For the first time in its storied history, Merrell is pulling back the curtain on its internal archive, a treasure trove of design, performance, and heritage housed at the brand’s Rockford, Michigan headquarters. The result is a rare, behind-the-scenes look into the decades of innovation that have shaped Merrell into the trailblazing force it is today.
This is more than just a deep dive, it’s an exploration of identity. The Merrell archive contains everything from technical drawings and toolings to swatches, prototypes, and vintage catalogues that together map out the DNA of the brand. Tucked away in this rich visual history are rarely seen silhouettes that chart Merrell’s evolution: ski boots, hiking icons, and even the Flashdance, the brand’s very own climbing shoe, an underground gem now resurfacing as part of the narrative that informs Spring/Summer 2025.
At the heart of this exploration lies a familiar name: Moab. Revered as a go-to sole unit in Merrell’s performance lineup, the Moab sole plate has endured years of research and refinement, not just surviving, but thriving through ever-changing terrain and trends. For SS25, three key models are built on the Moab sole, a testament to its timeless utility and continual reinvention.
But the archive isn’t just about what was, it’s about what’s next.
One of the most compelling stories to emerge from the archive is the evolution of the Chameleon family. Like its reptilian counterpart, the Chameleon has proven its adaptability over time, shapeshifting both in form and function. Its ability to thrive in unpredictable conditions makes it a modern-day symbol of Merrell 1TRL’s ethos: responsive, resilient, and ready for anything. This season, that philosophy comes to life in the new Cham Redux, a fresh iteration that honours the original’s intent while pushing its performance further.
By unlocking the archive, Merrell 1TRL not only opens a window into its past but also sets the stage for the future. It’s a masterclass in progress through reflection, a journey through texture, terrain, and time that connects each thread of the brand’s legacy to the fabric of today’s outdoor innovation.
Welcome to the archive. Welcome to Merrell 1TRL, SS25