Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boot Review
An in-depth review of the Merrell Moab 3 hiking boot
August 23rd, 2023
The author hiking in the Merrell Moab 3 in Mammoth Lakes, California,
OUR VERDICT
I have loved my Merrell Moab 2 hiking boots for years, and the Merrell Moab 3 Mid boots (men's and women's) have proven to be an excellent update.
I have tested the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Unlikely Hiker’s edition on hard-packed, late-season snow, mud, and on dry trails. They’ve crossed streams, been dunked in small ponds, and have slogged through slush. I first wore them in early June in the Mammoth Mountain area of the Eastern Sierras, only several months after the largest snowfall on record. The ground was slushy and vacillated between dry dirt and snow. Since first receiving them before summer began, they have clocked over 40 miles in the Sierra Nevadas and in Grand Teton National Park, keeping my feet dry and secure the entire time.
The Unlikely Hikers edition, which I tested, sport an attractive colorway that also signifies Merrell’s partnership with Jenny Bruso and Unlikely Hiker’s mission: to amplify the message that all bodies and all people belong outside and deserve to feel safe and seen. For beginners and seasoned hikers alike, the Moab 3s provide a comfortable and secure walking experience with little to no break in time.
While the Merrell Moab 3 Mid are distinctly a hiking boot and made for rough uneven terrain and trails, they are also a comfortable boot for long or strenuous walks. I wore them on a college tour with high school students this summer, and they made walking up and down hills, stairs, and miles of concrete much more tolerable. I struggle from an old ankle injury that can get strained when being worn without adequate footbed and ankle support, and I found both in abundance in the Moab 3s. The Merrell Moab 3 is the best budget winner in our Best Hiking Boots guide and our Best Lightweight Hiking Boots guide. The low-top version is a winner in our guide to the Best Hiking Shoe. In this long-term and in-depth Merrell Moab 3 Mid review, I consider what makes this a time-tested hiking boot and a long-term favorite among hikers.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE MERRELL MOAB 2
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
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SPECS
Sizes available: 7 to 15 (men's), 5 to 12 (women's), kids sizes
Width: Medium, wide
Waterproofing: M Select Dry
Upper: Suede and mesh, pigskin leather and mesh (vegan versions available)
Midsole: Merrell Air Cushion
Outsole: Vibram TC5+
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm): 11.5 mm
Stack Height: 20.5 mm (toe) to 31.7 mm (heel)
Lugs: 5mm
Weight (pair): 2 lbs 4 oz (men’s), 1 lb 13 oz (women’s)
COMPARISON TABLE OF SIMILAR MODELS
MEN’S
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH | AVAILABLE SIZES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | Mid | $150 | 2 lbs, 4 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Suede and mesh | M Select Dry | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid | Mid | $130 | 2 lbs, 2 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Suede & mesh | Not waterproof | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX | Mid | $170 | 1 lb, 15.7 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather, 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh | GORE-TEX® | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX | Mid | $175 | 1 lb, 14.4 oz | Rubber | EnergyCell | PU-coated leather and textile | Gore-Tex | Medium | 7 to 14 |
| La Sportiva TX Hike Mids | Mid | $190 | 2 lbs 2.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO | Compression EVA | recycled air mesh | Gore-Tex Extended comfort | Medium | 38-49.5 (EU sizing) |
WOMEN’S
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH | AVAILABLE SIZES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP | Mid | $150 | 1 lbs 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Pigskin leather/mesh | M Select Dry | Medium, wide | 5 to 12 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid | Mid | $130 | 1 lb, 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | EVA | Pigskin leather/mesh | Not waterproof | Medium, wide | 5 to 12 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX | Mid | $170 | 1 lb, 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather and mesh | GORE-Tex | Medium, wide | 5 to 12 |
| Salomon Quest 4 GTX | Mid | $230 | 2 lbs, 6.4 oz | Contagrip TD | EVA Foam | Leather & textile | Gore-Tex | Medium | 6 to 11 |
| La Sportiva TX Hike Mids | Mid | 190 | 1 lb, 12.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO | Compression EVA | Recycled air mesh | GORE-TEX Extended Comfort | Medium | 36 to 43 (EU sizing) |
WHAT WE LIKED
Stability and support
Low to no break in period
Wide feet friendly
Stable grip on the Vibram sole
Accessible and versatile
The Merrell Moab 3 is available in a wide variety of colors, heights, and materials (vegan and non-vegan). Whether you want something bright or something traditional, there’s a version for your style.
Details
FIT
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid fit my long, medium-width feet well all around. I found them to be true to my normal shoe size, an 11, without being too snug nor too roomy. The toe box feels more square than its predecessor, but it accommodates light, midweight, and heavier socks (all Darn Tough). Merrells are known for their wide widths, and although my foot is overall fairly medium sized and not on the wider end, I can imagine that the design of the boot itself would be accommodating for wider feet. I tested with the mid-length boot, but they come in low-top versions as well for those who prefer less boot.
For those who have worn Merrell Moab 2s over the years, the differences in fit are almost imperceptible, but I did find them to feel generally more roomy than my first Moabs. This extra room did not leave me feeling like my foot was loose or unsupported though, and should work well for most hikers.
The Merrell Moab 3 has a stable and secure ride while navigating uneven ground with the ability to lace up high for a secure feel.
CUSHIONING
The cushioning on the Merrell Moab 3 Mid is solid while remaining responsive to the ground beneath the outsole. I have worn hiking boots before that are so thick that my feet feel distant and clunky on the ground, and finding a balance between shoes that are protective yet still connected to the trail beneath can be difficult. With the Moab 3s, I have no issue with this. The Moab 3s are forgiving, with a freedom of motion in the feet and ankles that does not feel stiff, as many boots do.
The cushioning is excellent on these boots, providing a stable and secure ride when navigating flat walking trails as well as rocky inclines. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heel provides impact absorption that feels more than adequate for my day hiking and backpacking needs.
The Merrell Moab 3 are comfortable right out of the box.
COMFORT
It is no surprise that the Merrell Moab 3 Mid, like the 2s and the 1s that preceded it, are comfortable. Merrell is a brand known for consistency surrounding footwear that places comfort at the forefront. The comfort was evident almost immediately out of the box, a rarity for many boots. The soft and cushioned ankle shaft of the boot, when tied down, provided me with protection during the approximately dozen times I have rolled my ankle while wearing them. A toe cap also provides protection from stubbing toes. The toe box feels more square than its predecessor, but it accommodates light, midweight, and heavier socks (all Darn Tough). While the Moab 3s are not a replacement for physical therapy or other important ways to protect one’s ankles and feet, I did find the Moabs to provide more than adequate comfort for my accident-prone self.
The solid Vibram sole on the Merrell Moab 3.
GRIP AND TRACTION
The first hike my Merrell Moab 3s went on was on slushy mud and late season snow. The 3s performed well, though I did initially find them to feel slicker against the ground than my previous Moabs. The grip does seem to increase in effectiveness the longer I have hiked in them, so I believe that the boots need a few miles before their grip feels most secure.
The outsole also has a notable improvement over the old Moabs, with lugs that feel more toothy and sharp against mud, dirt, and most trail conditions.
My boots have gone up short distances on loose shale in the Eastern Sierras, and they held me as well as boots can on loose rocks. If I were on a more technical trail or needed boots for an intense approach, I would likely not choose the Moabs, as they don’t have the standout traction that I find in other shoes on the market right now, like the Hoka Speedgoat 5 or the Salomon X Ultra.
The author hiking in the snow in early summer in the Merrell Moab 3.
VERSATILITY
The Merrell Moab 3 boots are a great choice for hiking, backpacking, and walking. They sport a breathable mesh upper, making them equally suitable for long days on the trail or on paved walkways and roads.
RESPONSIVENESS
Finding the balance between boots that are agile and responsive against different trail conditions while providing a stable and secure ride can be difficult. The Merrell Moab 3s find a nice middle ground. While walking on slippery shale and later small rocks, I didn’t feel too removed and instead felt firm and in touch with the ground beneath me. My favorite part of the Moabs, which I mentioned in another part of this review, is how secure and comfortable they are for my feet and ankle. Are these the most responsive boots I have ever worn? No, but the trade off is minimal and for the price point and security they provide I find them to have a more than adequate responsiveness level to the trail.
WARMTH
The Moab 3s are a fairly warm boot, specifically in the waterproof versions due to the waterproofing membrane that seals out water. I dunked them in several creeks and my toes felt slightly cool but never cold. I can easily imagine transitioning these boots to fall and light snowy days when winter comes, and I plan to take them snowshoeing or on trails that aren’t heavily impacted by snow, as they are not designed to replace a snow boot.
The Merrell Moab 3 has no break-in time in our experience, which means you can get started hiking sooner.
BREAK-IN TIME
One of my favorite aspects of the Moab line, from the original to the latest iteration, is their seemingly nonexistent break-in time. As I mentioned before, it may take you a mile or so to feel like the boots are responsible and fully grippy against the trail, but as far as break-in time with comfort and wear, I find the Moab 3s to be one of the best boots on the market. From box to trail, they provide almost immediate comfort and support. This may not be the case for everyone though, so as with all boots and gear I recommend taking them on at least a few short hikes and walks before you venture out on a longer trek.
Close up on the sturdy toe cap on the Merrell Moab 3, which prevents you from stubbing your toe on rocks and roots.
BREATHABILITY
I often find boots to be too heavy; as a primarily summer hiker who doesn’t navigate many snowy days or cold conditions, I often opt for a hiking shoe without waterproofing to cut down on sweaty feet. The Moab 3s boots were tested during hot days in Grand Teton NP, and I found them to be an overall breathable yet warm boot. They are not suffocating though, as they have breathable mesh lining throughout the upper for increased air flow and circulation. With a midweight or lightweight sock, they make for an easy summer hiking boot that I am sure will transition to fall and early winter hiking.
To test the Merrell Moab 3’s waterproofing, we tested on many creek and river crossings in the Sierra and Grand Teton National Park.
WATERPROOFING
The Merrell Moab 3 is available in waterproof, Gore-Tex, and Prime versions. I tested the waterproof, non Gore-Tex, versions, which sit at a slightly lower price generally than the Gore-Tex version.
As with most boots, I find the differences between the Gore-Tex and in-house waterproof material minimal. My previous Moabs are made with Gore-Tex, and I found those boots to have excellent waterproofing capabilities. The 3s, which I tested most recently, are just as waterproof as my older Gore-Tex pair.
I crossed several creeks, stepped onto the banks of several rivers and lakes, and only got wet socks when the water rushed over my ankles and down my boot. During the remainder of hikes with creek crossings where I didn’t get my feet wet, I only felt the slight chill from the water that had gone down into the boot, but my feet remained dry. The dry time felt quick as well, hastened by the summer sun I’m sure, but it also left me feeling confident in the waterproof capabilities and heartened that moisture wasn’t sitting in the boot for too long.
The Merrell Moab 3 are study hiking boots for rugged trails.
DURABILITY AND LONGEVITY
I’ve said many times throughout this review that Merrell is a company built on consistency. I am the owner of not just two pairs of Moabs, but also Merrell’s trail runners, sandals, and hiking shoes. All of these shoes reflect that consistency and reflect that Merrell is a brand that builds hiking shoes to last.
My older Moabs, for example, carried me through several years working in outdoor programming with youth–leading countless backpacking trips, going on miles and miles of day hikes–and they have kept me secure on every camping trip in between.
Although the Moab line is not the most lightweight or grippy boot on the market, it is a reliable daily hiking boot that is perfect for most hikers, and remains in good shape over the years. The Moab 3s are no exception to this consistency, holding their shape and colors through a busy summer of testing. I anticipate using them for years to come.
Close-up of the Merrell Moab 3 after some quality use.
PRICE AND VALUE COMPARED TO OTHER HIKING BOOTS
Another reason I find the Moab line to be a great beginner boot is the pricing. Sure, there are often cheaper boots on the market (REI brand, for example), but with many sales and a generally lower price (while not on sale) the Moab 3s are a great boot for someone looking to spend less than $150.
The Unlikely Hiker’s edition, which were tested for this review, are currently sitting just under $100 on Merrell’s website. The first pair of Moabs that I own were also my first purchase of real hiking boots, and their lower price point (I believe I paid just around $100 in the mid 2010’s) were the main reason for my purchase. I ended up finding the price and value to be excellent, as they lasted for years and still don’t show heavy wear and tear.
Comparable boots, such as the Keen Targhee III and the REI Flash, often go on sale for less than $100, but without a sale sit at around $150. For a more technical boot, like the La Sportiva, one can expect to pay closer to $200 and above.
When taking into consideration the lower-to-average price point coupled with the durability and ease of use for the Moab 3s, I find them to be an excellent value against other boots in its class.
IS IT A SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL COMPANY?
Merrell is a fairly sustainable company. While my old Moabs have not yet been fully retired, I can participate in the ReTread program when it is time to declutter them. Merrell’s ReTread program allows customers to recycle old pairs and includes incentives such as free shipping for the old boots and $20 off future purchases from Merrell once the boots have been received and checked by Merrell.
The Merrell Moab 3s also include recyclable materials, with 100% recycled materials in the mesh lining, the laces, and the webbing. These features also don’t impact the price point, reflecting that Merrell values sustainability as a necessary feature and not just an expensive addition.
Additionally, Merrell sells new pairs of boots and clothing that are made from recycled materials, such as the Moab 3 Scrap, which is made up of scrap materials that would have been tossed into a landfill otherwise. The Scrap isn’t waterproof, but makes up for that with an entirely unique pair every time due to the nature of the way the boot is constructed, and breathable and recyclable materials for the same consistently well-performing boot that one would expect from Merrell.
FEATURES
THe Merrell Moab 3 has options that are comfortable for folks with wide and narrow/medium feet.
VOLUME
My foot is medium volume, but the Merrell Moab line has always and remains consistent in creating boots that are made for both wide and narrow/medium feet. My feet can sometimes swell slightly in boots, and I found that the Moabs never felt too tight or uncomfortable. The Moab 3s tend to be boxier than other boots I have worn, which is an added bonus for those with higher volume feet who need extra space. The wide widths come in both the mid and low top versions of the boot.
WEIGHT OF SHOE
The Moab 3s are midweight boots. i, I wore them on an overnight backpacking trip and day trips, but would probably not wear them if I were traveling more than a few days on foot. They weigh 13.57oz per shoe or 1lb 13 oz, lighter than the Moab 2s which were 2 lbs a pair. They are also slightly heavier per pair than Keen’s Targhee III, which sit at 1 lb 12.4 oz. While comparable to the Targhee, I don’t think either boot is as lightweight or agile as other hiking shoes I prefer, like the low-cut Hoka Speedgoat hiking shoe or the older pair of trail running shoes I wear on most hikes. However, for most hikers, I found the Merrell shoe to be as agile as they need to be, and the comfort and security of the padding and shoe are worth the slight clunkiness that I sometimes felt while wearing them.
HEEL-TO-TOE DROP
The heel-to-toe drop, or the height difference between the midsole and the forefoot, is 11.5 mm for the Moab 3s. This is considered a high drop hiking shoe, which means it offers more stability and motion control than a shoe with a shorter drop. Altra Lone Peak trail running shoes, alternatively, offer zero-drop, which allows folks to land each stride closer to their natural gait. The ideal drop for you is dependent on your needs–e.g., any injuries you might be prone to, what shoes your feet are used to. As someone with past injuries, I found the heel-to-toe drop on the Moab 3s to be perfect for my needs.
View of the Merrell Moab 3 as it looks to the hiker.
LACES AND EYELETS/SECURITY ON FOOT
The laces on the Moab 3s are a good width–not too scratchy or narrow in hand. Made from 100% recycled materials, they don’t get too bogged down by water and are easy to manipulate. The eyelets and lace loops kept my foot feeling secure throughout the day, and I experienced no slippage as I gained elevation.
DOES IT HAVE REFLECTIVE MATERIAL?
The Moab 3 Unlikely Hiker edition does not seem to have built-in reflective materials, as I didn’t notice reflection on the boots when I walked at night with my headlamp on. This is important to note if you plan on doing early morning or late ascents/descents.
The Unlikely Hikers Merrell Moab 3 has the words “My body took me here” on the tongue.
STYLE AND DESIGN
The Unlikely Hiker version, which I tested, comes in an attractive set of colors–mint, purple, orange, and other variations of those colors run along the sides of the leather upper and the tongue. The tongue sports the Unlikely Hikers motto, “My body took me here,” stamped into it, which is a beautiful message and reminder while hiking. The other colorways are equally attractive, coming in muted earth tones that blend in with the nature they traverse through. While hiking, I received several compliments from strangers who were surprised that Merrells came in the colors of the Unlikely Hikers version. (The Moab 2 wasn’t available in as many colors or styles, so we appreciated that change in the Moab 3.)
You can read here my news article about the Unlikely Hikers-Merrell collaboration.
DIFFERENCES FROM MOAB 2
Comparison of the Merrell Moab 2 (left) with the Merrell Moab 3.
My previous Moabs were, as I mentioned before, my heaviest-used hiking boots, especially in my early years of adventuring outside. They were always slightly clunky and always looked like a traditional hiking boot–less cute than they were functional. The Moab 3s are more attractive, with a higher cushioning and durable shock absorption for those with higher volume feet and larger bodies/heavier weight.
The Merrell Moab 2 (left) next to the Merrell Moab 3 (right). The Moab 3 is made of sturdier materials.
I am tall, 5’9 and about 240lbs, and I found the Moab 3s solidly cushioning and carrying me. In some hiking footwear, like my Hokas, I can see the signs of my weight on the hiking shoe’s heel that have developed over time and miles. With the Moab 3s, this hasn't happened yet and I doubt this will happen, as the strong arch support (boosted by a molded nylon arch shank) and Kinetic Fit Advanced footbed provide excellent stability and a strong foundation under the weight of anyone who chooses to wear them.
Comparison of the sole on the Merrell Moab 3 (left) and Merrell Moab 2 (right). Note how even after more than 10 years of hiking and urban use, the Merrell Moab 2 sole is in great condition.
The features that I loved about the Moab 2 are dialed higher in the Moab 3s. The Vibram TC5+ outsole has improved the boots’ traction, and the switch from the suede upper in the 2s to the leather upper in the 3s will yield a boot that stays durable for longer.
Merrell has also done away with the “ventilator” Moabs, instead opting for mesh lining on the mids and shoes that feels breathable despite the waterproofing and the heavy reinforced heel cushioning.
Additions to the Moab 3s also include more recyclable materials, the overall partnership with Unlikely Hikers, and better arch and footbed support that yield a boot that is still as consistent as the previous models but with features that make it more technical and better equipped for longer hikes.
OTHER MODELS AVAILABLE
The Moab 3 line is quite large, with several variations in waterproofing, materials, and ankle height for varying needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a Merrell hiking shoe or Merrell boot, the Moab 3 line has an iteration and design that will work for you.
Heights
For those wanting more ankle support, the mid length boots come just snugly against my ankles and can be strapped down for even more stability. The Merrell hiking boots in the Moab 3 line include various waterproofing and colorways. For those wanting more speed, less support, and/or less materials and warmth, the low top hiking shoe offerings would be best.
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Waterproofing
In terms of waterproofing, one can purchase both mid and low top models with Merrell’s own waterproof membrane or with Gore-Tex. The Gore-Tex models sit at a slightly higher price point, and I found the version with Merrell’s own waterproofing to be more than fine when the boot was submersed. Those who want the comfort of the Gore-Tex name, which means that the gear sporting the Gore-Tex name are almost infallibly waterproof, can certainly choose the higher-priced versions if they prefer. Rounding out the collection are the Prime models, which in the mens’ boots include full grain leather uppers and the Smooth Mid Gore-Tex version for women.
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The Moab 3s also include speed versions which are lighter in weight and low top and are designed to be used as a trail running shoe.
SHOULD I BUY THE MOAB 3?
The Moab 3 is perfect for those looking for their first boot just as much as it is made for those who are experienced hikers and looking for an update to their older Moabs. The out of the box comfort and low break in time are excellent features for those who are looking for a boot that can immediately be worn.
WHAT COULD BE BETTER?
As responsive as the Moab 3s can be, especially when compared to their older counterparts, they are still clunkier to the hiking shoe styles that many are opting for these days. They have improved in their breathability but still are fairly warm during summer hiking.
The biggest area of improvement for the Moab 3s is with the traction. The Vibram sole is excellent for on-trail usage but can feel slippery during creek crossings and on slick shale and other off trail conditions.
SIMILAR MODELS / OTHER SHOES YOU MAY PREFER
While lower and mid-budget boots are more plentiful than back in the early 2010’s when I purchased my last pair of Moabs, the 3s are still a standout model. A main competitor is the Keen Targhee III, which I find comparable in weight, waterproofing, and general price point.
La Sportiva TX Hike Mids
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex Extended comfort
Upper: recycled air mesh
Midsole: Compression EVA
Outsole: Vibram Ecostep EVO
Weight: 2 lbs 2.6 oz (men's) 1 lb 12.6 oz (women's)
A model I am also loving are the La Sportiva TX Hike Mids, which are lighter in weight and feel much more grippy and tactile against the trail. The Trail Bite™ heels are to thank for this feature, and I have loved wearing them on my last backpacking trips. The tread/lugs feel deep and solid, and miles can be racked up with them without feeling bogged down by wearing heavy boots. They are $199.99 generally, varying between $29-90 less than different varieties of the Moab 3s.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE LA SPORTIVA TX HIKE MIDS
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WOMEN'S
Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
Upper Material: Synthetic/ textile
Midsole Material: EnergyCell
Outsole: Rubber
Weight: 1 lb 14.4 oz (men's), 1 lb 10.1 oz (women's)
The Salomon X Ultra 4 GORE-TEX is another offering that is well received by customers. While it’s a higher price, at $160, it offers a low profile and ultra soft materials that are comfortable while being responsive and built for speed.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE SALOMON X ULTRA 4 GTX
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WOMEN'S
WHY YOU SHOULD TRUST US / ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am a hiker who believes that all bodies and identities deserve to find themselves outside. I have worked and lived in outdoor education and program spaces, leading backpacking and camping trips for young people who have logged hundreds of miles over the years. The Sea to Summit Trail, sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, the Lost Coast Trail, and others have all been navigated by myself and my old Moabs. I also have previous ankle and toe injuries, making my feet sensitive to boots and shoes that offer low arch and ankle support. With these injuries and my experience, I am intentional about the footwear I choose to wear and recommend.
