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🔊 Listen ⏹ Stop

This month, we’re celebrating all those amazing dads out there for their strengths, their flaws, their typical dad jokes, and silly quirks, because that’s what makes up this incredible human being we call dad.

Every dad has a signature personality trait, and this month, we thought we’d match some of our footwear with each type of dad out there (feel free to use this as a potential gift guide!).

For Every Dad Personality There’s A Pair of Merrells That Fit His Style

1. The DIY Dad

For this dad, there is no job that’s too big or too small for him to handle.

But here’s the thing: no promises are made when it comes to timelines. In some cases, the project gets done today, and in other cases, well, he might be taking a ‘creative break to focus on other areas instead’.

One thing remains true, though: this dad is NOT hiring someone else to do the job…unless mom steps in. Plumber, builder, carpenter, electrician, he’ll tackle it all! So, he needs a shoe that can easily transition between project and supply run.

We think this dad would love our Moab Speed 2 LTR WP. This hiker is available in 2 colourways, offers protection against wet conditions, and has excellent grip for rugged trails (so it should be good enough for his many projects)!

2. The Braaimaster Dad

This dad protects his wors and tjops like his life depends on it, and if any son-in-law tries to get their hands on the grid, well then, good luck to him!

Signature moves from this dad include tapping the tongs together twice (because this activates the activity we think?), using his shorts as a hand towel, and, of course, sharing stories from his young days while looking deeply at the coals.

Typically, he prefers to go barefoot, but when his wife insists that he wear shoes, well then, he opts for comfortable and breathable choices.

For that reason, we think this dad would live in a pair of our Maipo Explorer Sieve. Three colours, and a combination of a sandal and hiker appearance, what more could he ask for? On the other hand, if the combination of open shoes and hot coals doesn’t quite sit right with his wife, then the Maipo Explorer Aerosport offers more protection, fast-drying breathability, and all-day comfort.

3. The Sports Dad

This dad loves sports. Seriously, no matter the sport, odds are, he knows the rules and is also an expert on how best to play it…or so he thinks. He doesn’t simply watch the game. He emotionally participates in every pass, tackle and questionable referee decision.

Every match should be treated with complete determination and drive. And yes, this energy extends to school derby days.

So while he is ‘coaching’ his kids' sports team from the sidelines, he’ll need some footwear to keep up with all the pacing, directing, and disagreeing with the referee. For this, we recommend the Morphlite.

This light road-to-trail shoe offers this dad a sleek athletic design (which we KNOW he is looking for in a shoe), along with technologies that will allow him to spontaneously participate in any sport activity, should he be required to.

4. The Jokester Dad

For every story and every situation, this dad has a funny anecdote cocked and ready to fire!

You’ll never catch him missing an opportunity for a good pun or a harmless little prank (which is typically played in cahoots with the youngest kid).

His signature moves include keeping up with the latest generations' slang (or so he thinks) and making sure his wardrobe fits the new trends (or at least his kids give him points for trying).

While he might not always hit the mark with fitting in with the youngsters, at least his footwear can help him rank a little higher. That’s why, for this dad, we’d recommend our Jungle Moc.

Featuring a convenient slip-on design, this shoe is beautifully minimalistic, comfortable, and available in 3 different colours.

5. Bonus Dad Category that might fit everyone: The Noise Effects Pro Dad

From sneezes that make the house shake to groans heard when standing up from a particularly low chair, dads are infamous for their extra-loud sound effects!

Truth be told, we don’t think this category is limited to just one type of dad. In fact, we’re willing to bet most dads out there are guilty of it.

But that’s okay. Living out loud is part of life, and it’s these very qualities that make your presence known and your absence felt in your family.

Something for Every Dad

It’s true, no two dads are the same. Whether he’s the jokester, the braaimaster, the star athlete, or the certified DIYer, each one has something in common: they are always showing up for their family.

That’s why having the right footwear matters. With Merrell, there’s truly something for every kind of dad out there; every hobby and every routine.

So, shop our selection today, and find your dad the perfect pair of Merrells, because let’s be honest - he’s not slowing down anytime soon!