Merrell Siren Sport Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Women's - 2011 BCS

I'm on my 2rd pair of Merrell's so I've gotten to know all the quirks of this shoe. First of all, I'm wondering if the previous reviewer actually got the waterproof version as there is a non-Gortex version of the Siren. I've always bought the Gortex version and have been satisfied with its ability to keep out water. For example, I submerged my entire foot while crossing a Scottish stream and my foot/socks stayed dry. Amazing. I've also hiked on Kauai mud trails and stayed dry. So, you can trust that the shoe's Gortex lining will keep your feet dry. If you buy the waterproof version, you'll need to go up a size, especially if you want to wear inserts. Second,the shoe conforms well to a woman's foot but doesn't offer great support. I replaced the original insert with Super Feet and that gave me a lot more support for hiking. Previously, my arch would hurt if I hiked more than three miles in these shoes. Third, the shoes seem to have a one year life span. After a year, the tread wears away at the back of the shoe which isn't good if you need to grip slippery trails.

To sum up, there are three things I wish the Merrell would improve in this shoe:

- Better built-in arch support
- Chunkier tread
- Make the tongue thinner (no need to add so much material here.

I am now on my second pair of these shoes after returning the first pair. After just a few months they have already worn through the gore-tex inside. I returned my first pair because I encountered the same problem- after a few months of wearing them I had leaky shoes. It seems the only real waterproof shoe that I can count on now is a rubber rain boot. Another warning for those who are considering this shoe: after getting some mileage in them, it takes a few days for the wet smell to go away (and it's not sweat- I wore good wool, odor-absorbing socks).
On a more positive side, I would recommend Merrell brand to any of my female friends. The shoe fit PERFECTLY and was so comfortable, I could be on my feet all day outside and still be good to go. Great arch support. No need to really break them in- they fit from the start.

I needed a pair of good waterproof hiking shoes cause we were going camping.... having purchased multiple Merrell's in the past and being totally happy I knew I wanted them again..... well I freakin love this shoe! It is super comfortable, has great support and looks awesome. My hubby is jealous they don't make a man's version. I did do as the other women suggested and ordered half a size larger than I normally wear and it fits like a glove. I only had to wear them for a few hours before they felt completely broken in..... I'm planning on purchasing another pair in a different color I love them so much. Super comfy, great performance... couldn't be happier. And backcountry.com had them the cheapest and got them to me the quickest...LOVE IT!

Bought these for the girlfriend. Seemed like a nice shoe, but they run 1/2 size small so we are awaiting the arrival of the new pair. Will testify later after she's gotten some miles on them. 4 stars because we don't know if they are negative or positive yet : )