Details
Brand
Merrell
Heel To Toe Drop
N/A
Breathability
7/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Leather & mesh combo upper• Mesh liner• Merrell M Select footbed• Air Cushion heel• EVA midsole• M Select Grip outsole
Upper
Instead of suede like the Jungle Moc, the Bypass is covered in leather and mesh. The mesh is just a first layer, though, so the shoe doesn’t breathe as well as some expected. The shoe does, however, feature an exposed heel area, which helps somewhat with ventilation. Reviewers liked the sturdy upper construction and wide toe box but noted that without a heel back the shoe tends to slip off randomly. This feature (or lack thereof) also means support is reduced.
Midsole
The midsole of the Encore is essentially identical to that of the Jungle Moc. Inside you’ll find an M Select Fit.ECO footbed, EVA cushioning, and Air Cushion in the heel. Like its sister slip-on, the Bypass was highly rated by reviewers when it came to comfort. Reviewers also liked the provided arch support. The Encore is a top recovery-wear pick for users.
Outsole
The Bypass features the same M Select Grip rubber seen in the Jungle Moc, but doesn’t have the prominent tread pattern of its slip-on shoe cousin. Still, the Encore provides decent traction. It’s not quite meant for long walks, however, so the outsole isn’t as thick or sturdily designed.
Breathability
Breathability suffers in the Bypass because of its leather upper design. You might think that with mesh panels ventilation would be adequate but upon closer inspection, you can tell that the mesh is more for looks than anything else. It’s simply the first layer. The holes don’t actually go through to the interior and breathability is thus limited. Reviewers found this disappointing. Thankfully, it’s not a complete failure since the exposed back of the shoe does allow some air to circulate. Reviewers also liked the roomy forefoot design.
Comfort
Most reviewers found the Bypass just as comfortable as the Jungle Moc. The slip-on is easy to take on and off (even easier than the Moc because it lacks a back heel portion). The shoe is a good option for those who want a sandal but who need extra support and don’t want to skimp on cushioning. The shoe’s well-cushioned midsole contains two types of padding: Air and EVA for a soft, cloud-like feel underfoot. The generous cushioning makes the slip-on a superb choice for recovery wear. The only drawback? The limited ventilation due to the leather upper material. Many reviewers also cited fit issues due to the omission of a heel back.
Style
The Bypass isn’t the most stylish footwear option but it doesn’t look outlandish or orthopedic either. The men’s slip-on comes in dark earth, black, or gunsmoke, each a different neutral tone. For walking around the house or backyard, the Bypass is a classy, subtly styled option.
Durability
Unlike the Jungle Moc, a handful of Encore reviewers encountered durability issues that consisted of the outsole peeling off the shoe. Otherwise, the Bypass is constructed with similar quality materials, from M Select rubber to sturdy leather, for its upper.
Protection
You’ll get a little less protection with the Encore Bypass simply because there’s no back to this shoe. Otherwise, the midsole is exactly the same as the Jungle Moc so expect the same great impact protection as its companion shoe. Air Cushion and EVA material deliver the perfect balance of protection and comfort.
Responsiveness
Like the Merrell Moc, the Bypass isn’t particularly responsive.
Support
Reviewers were happy with the arch support provided by the Bypass, though users did point out that the lack of a back meant that support was somewhat compromised at times. Quite a few reviewers had issues with the shoe slipping off because of the exposed heel area, which resulted in an improper fit and thus inadequate support.
Terrain
While you might take Merrell’s Jungle Moc for day hikes on well-groomed trails, the Encore Bypass is best used close to home because of its heelless design. The shoe is a comfortable, protective alternative to sandals. The outsole provides grip, though lacks the 3mm lugs seen in the Moc.
Price
Reviewers found the Encore Bypass fairly priced. A few, mostly those who encountered fit issues and slippage, found the cost a bit high. The Bypass is a lot less versatile than its cousin the Jungle Moc, so paying a similar price may not seem worth it to some. However, for users looking for a cushioned shoe to wear around home, the Bypass is a choice that offers good value.
Drop
We had no luck tracking down the drop height for the Merrell Encore Bypass.
Stability
Quite a few reviewers complained that the open back featured on Encore Bypass really reduced overall stability, mainly due to the fact that slippage was a common occurrence with the shoe. Many users reported that the backless design delivered a poor fit that easily slipped off the foot. Compared to standard sandals, however, the Bypass definitely provides more stability.
Flexibility
Like the Jungle Moc, the Bypass isn’t particularly flexible.
Traction
Absent are the 3mm lugs seen in the Jungle Moc. But the Encore Bypass features the same grippy M Select Grip rubber outsole as its sister shoe. Traction is equally good if a little less aggressive. Reviewers found the outsole suitable for indoor and light outdoor wear.
Bottom Line
The Merrell Encore Bypass is your best bet if you’re looking for a well-cushioned quick slip-on shoe option. Without a back, however, some found the fit a bit sloppy. If you can live with a bit of slippage or if you can find the sweet spot in terms of sizing, the Encore is a great shoe to have around the house. Like the Merrell Jungle Moc, the midsole is well-cushioned, comfortable, and protective, making it an excellent recovery-wear pick. If you hate the unsupportive design of traditional sandals, be kind to your feet and opt for the Merrell Bypass.
