Merrell Moab, An Affordable Hiking Boot That Is Great For Beginners

Merrell Moab Review

Summary

As a beginner or everyday boot and shoe I rate the Merrell Moab very high. Comfortable enough to wear like a tennis shoe, and still durable enough to take on some rough trails. Not good on sharp rocky terrain.

Main Pros

Light Weight

Packable

Functional

Main Cons

Sole Thickness

Ankle Support

FEATURES

Dura leather and mesh upper
Bellows tongue keeps debris out
Synthetic leather toe cap and heel counter
M Select dry seals out water and lets moisture escape so you stay dry when you’re on the Move
M Select Fresh naturally prevents odor before it starts for Fresh smelling feet
Ortholite Anatomical footbed
Molded nylon arch shank
Merrell air cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
Compression molded EVA footframe provides cushioning
5mm lug depth
Vibram outsole

Some true hiking boots are rigged, hard, and far from soft. The Merrell Moab has a feel much closer to a high top tennis shoe, and is great for everyday use. The Moab is often the most affordable of the REI range hiking boots. With a Vibram sole, the grip is good enough for most day hikes, and the feel means you could throw them on and run to the grocery store.

For Beginners

Hiking boots take some getting used to. Most beginning hikers are more used to the feel of an athletic tennis shoe. This is exactly why I usually recommend the Moab to beginning hikers. The boot is softer, more pliable, and has a good raise on the mid range boot, but won’t hinder all of your ankle movement.

Variations

There are a couple different variations of the Merrell Moab Hiking Boot. The boot comes in a low top, which is more like a trail shoe. Comfy for some, but I like to protect my ankles. Also with the Arizona ants and prickly plants the Mid Range is my preferred boot for comfort and protection.

The Moab also comes in a regular boot and a Water Proof version.

My wife, son, and I are all avid hikers as you have probably figured out if you have read through the site a little. All three of us own a pair of the Merrell Moab’s. I have always had the regular version. To be honest, if I plan on hiking in water or mud I usually will be wearing a different pair of boots.

My wife and son recently got new pairs since their other boots were getting old. The opted for the Water Proof. I will paraphrase their feedback. My son said, “Are these boots really water proof? Water still gets in when it rains” this shows that they are probably more water proof. However, as hiking boots go, you aren’t gonna walk through a creek and come out on the other side dry.

My wife said, “I don’t like the feel of these as much. They are more rigid. I liked the feeling of my other pair (non water proof) better.” I just give this information for anyone looking at the Water Proof version. I wear the Moab as an everyday shoe, even when I’m not hiking. Seems like the water proofing may make the shoe more rigid like a trail hiking boot. Also, the quality of the water proofing is not perfect – probably about what you can expect in the price range.

SPECS & MATERIALS

Outsole:	Vibram
Footwear Height:	Ankle
Terrain:	Trail
Weight:	31 oz
Gender:	Mens
Features:	Compression, Cushioned
Best Use:	Hiking, Day Hiking, Backpacking
Footwear Closure:	Lace-up
Toe Coverage:	Closed Toe

Why We Bought the Merrell Moab

Sure we have done some thru-hikes and long distance adventures. However, truth is, usually we don’t. There are plenty of days were we just want to get out on the trail and put in a couple miles and enjoy the scenery.

We also live at about 7,000 feet elevation and get PLENTY of snow during the winter. When the snow is high, or even more when it is melting and muddy, hiking boots are my go to shoe to run errands or drop my son off at school.

The Merrell Moab is comfortable, and easy. They are almost like an outdoorsy guys version of Air Jordan High Tops. The advantage is I can get them muddy and not worry about it. They have a descent grip from the Vibram Sole, and I have had my pair for over 4 years and they are still going strong.

We bought the Merrell Moab boots because we needed something we could use for day hikes and outdoor adventures. Something comfortable enough to wear out 4 wheeling around or camping. The Merrell Moab is such a perfect fit, my wife and son are on their second pairs.

I would recommend something more expensive and trail ready if you are planning on a long hike, back packing trip, or intensive trek. However, for most of you, especially beginners, the Moab will get the job done.

Let’s Talk About the Cons

The Moab has one very definite con that I have experienced. The sole is flexible which adds to the comfort, but so flexible that you will feel rocks through the bottom. I do alot of hiking around Northern Arizona. This area of the United States is covered in Volcanic Rock. This Volcanic Rock is sharp, extremely hard, and would poke a hole right through your foot if you weren’t wearing boots.

In my trail ready boots, I can step over a sharp piece of rock and feel little to nothing. The bottom of my foot is well protected. However, due to the build of the Vibram Sole on the Merrell Moab, I can feel what I step on! So much so that I often find myself changing my route to avoid sharp outcroppings whenever I can.

Some people love the minimalist feel of their foot being in contact with the earth. That is great for you, but I like my feet stable and protected. I usually opt for cowboy boots over tennis shoes when I head into town, just in case a rattle snake pops out. I am just crazy like that. Plus I am an Arizona Native, so the chances are there are some scorpions, snakes, spiders, mosquitos, and other pesky little critters out there who would love a taste of my Bear Paws.

A secondary concern is the ankle support. Even on the Mid Range version of the boot the ankle support is slightly lacking. This adds to the comfortability of the boot, but is a concern. If you are going to be carrying a heavy pack get a more secure boot.

The main reason for ankle support on many boots is the amount of weight you have on your back when traveling rough terrain. This boot is perfect for day trips with a day pack on your back. However, if you plan on carrying a heavy back pack, make sure you get something with better ankle support.

Conclusion

Chances are you won’t find a better boot for the bucks. The Merrell Moab has some faults. The soles don’t protect your feet as much as some. The water proofing may be a bit questionable. However, The Merrell Moab is an extremely good choice for an everyday shoe. Even if you aren’t hiking, this is a nice comfy pair of boots. They are also very durable for the price.

The Merrell Moab Hiking Boot is a perfect choice for beginner hikers, or those only looking to do short day trips. Use the link below to get a pair right now!