text: After literally hours of research between 8-9 shoe brands, I narrowed it down to these, the Salamons or the Hokas.  All of the representatives were knowledgeable, asked good questions and gave good feedback for my particular needs, which were a good cross-trainer, as I walk and run in every outing, as I grow to more running than walking. I also needed a shoe that could easily adapt to changing terrain, as I run on concrete, paved roads, gravel roads and dirt trails all in the same outing. And finally, I did NOT want a show with a drawstring lace. This may be the new fad, but I see it as something that will just wear out in less than a year and replacement 'laces' are expensive.  So, with all of those requirements in mind, that is how I shopped for my new pair of running shoes. I also wanted decent cushioning, not perhaps as much as the Hokas brand, but a decent amount without adding weight or that clunky feel with thick bottomed athletic shoes. The cushioning on these is perfect.  As an aside: as a former Nike customer, I can say with full confidence now that Nike shoes are garbage. (Sorry, Nike fans). This Merrell All out Charge is the lightest, most comfortable running shoe I have ever owned. It effortlessly adapts to changing surfaces without a hitch. And as an added bonus the tongue is sewn to the shoe on the inside right, so it never slips to the left or right. Very nice. I can't say enough good things about this shoe.