Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes Review
An in-depth review of a comfortable, lightweight, all-around hiking shoe
November 14th, 2025
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Our verdict
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX takes its blueprint from Merrell’s best-selling hiking boot, the Moab, and turns it into something lighter, quicker, and easier to wear everyday. It’s ideal for anyone who splits their time between casual hikes, travel, and everyday wear, especially those who spend a lot of time outdoors in wet weather.
After more than a year and a half of regular wear in the women’s and men’s, with well over 250 miles of testing across trails and everyday city walks, the Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX has proven impressively durable for such a lightweight synthetic build. It’s highly breathable for a waterproof shoe, and consistently comfortable. We’re also big fans of the modern cushioning and sportier silhouette. While it doesn’t offer the full protection of a burlier hiking boot or more technical hiking shoe, it’s exactly that nimble, sneaker-like feel that makes it such a versatile pick.
We think this is a great shoe for anyone who enjoys being active outdoors, whether that’s hiking, dog walking, chasing after kids, or camping. It comes in so many colors and versions (regular, wide, low, mid, GORE-TEX, non-waterproof, leather, and vegan-friendly), there’s a style to fit almost everyone’s needs.
Bottom line: If you want a lightweight, do-it-all waterproof hiking shoe that’s equally suited to travel, trails, and everyday wear, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX is one of the easiest shoes to recommend, which is why they’re one of our top picks in our guides to the Best Women’s Hiking Shoes and the Best Men’s Hiking Shoes.
men's
Women's
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Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX Specifications
Price: $170
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 5.2 oz (women’s); 1 lb 8.7 oz (men’s)
Cushion level: Medium (the midsole uses 30% more FloatPro Foam underfoot than previous version)
Heel-to-toe drop (mm): 10 mm
Stack height (heel/toe mm): 34-24 mm
Upper materials: Nylon ripstop and TPU synthetic upper with 100% recycled laces/webbing, recycled mesh lining, and recycled mesh footbed cover
Midsole material: FloatPro Foam midsole with full-length rock plate and FlexPlate torsional support plate
Outsole material and lugs: Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole (exclusive to Merrell) with 4 mm lug depth
Waterproof technology: GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane
Available sizes and widths: Men’s US 7- 15 in Regular and Wide; Women’s US 5- 11 in Regular and Wide
Suitable for vegans: Yes, Merrell lists it as “vegan-friendly”
Comparison table
| TRAIL RUNNING SHOE | MSRP* | WEIGHT (PAIR) | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOFING? | MIDSOLE | OUTSOLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb. 9.7 oz (men's), 1 lb. 5.2 oz (women's) | Nylon ripstop/TPU | GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane | FloatPro foam | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
| Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Men's Women's |
$160 | 2 lbs 1.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 10.1 oz (women's) | Pig suede leather/mesh | Merrell DRY waterproof membrane | Super Rebound Compound | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
| Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX Low Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's) | GORE-TEX | EnergyCell | All Terrain Contragrip rubber | |
| Oboz Katabatic LT Low GTX Waterproof Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 7.6 oz. (men's), 1 lb 4.6 oz. (women's) | Recycled polyester | GORE-TEX Invisible Fit | EVA | Trail Tread Eco rubber |
| Danner Trail 2650 Men's Women's |
$170 | 1 lb 11 oz (men's), 1 lb 5 oz (women's) | Suede, textile | N/A (mesh) | Vibram 460 |
Best for
Day hikers and casual adventurers who prioritize comfort and versatility over maximum protection
People who want a lightweight, waterproof shoe for everyday trails, travel, and mixed weather conditions
Those with average to wide feet who appreciate a roomy toe box and soft cushioning
What we liked
Lightweight yet supportive for an agile feel on-trail that doesn’t sacrifice stability
GORE-TEX membrane keeps feet dry in heavy rain
Cushioning has stayed plush after extensive testing
Versatile design make it equally at home on trails, city streets, or travel days
The synthetic build is very breathable for a GORE-TEX waterproof hiking shoe
Comes in regular and wide sizes, vegan and leather options, waterproof and non-waterproof, and low and mid versions
What could be better
The synthetic upper and lighter toe cap don’t offer full protection against trail impacts like sharp rocks
Outsole lugs are on the shallower side, which means traction in deep mud or loose gravel isn’t quite as aggressive as burlier trail shoes
At $170, the price is creeping up toward premium territory for a do-it-all hiking shoe
Built for day hikes, travel, and mixed terrain, this shoe is as versatile as it is comfortable. Photo by Steve Redmond
How we tested
We’ve been testing the women’s and men’s Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX for over a year and a half, since it launched in early 2024. We’ve put it through more real-world miles than almost any other shoe we’ve tested (we’ve lost track, but we’re sure we’re well over 250 miles and still counting).
Our Moab Speed 2s have seen as many miles on rocky and rooty hiking trails as they have on hard pavement. We’ve worn them primarily on the west coast of British Columbia, on trails and city streets around Squamish, Whistler, and Vancouver, and they were the only hiking shoes I took on a month-long summer road trip to Alberta. They’ve been a reliable go-to for hiking easy to moderate local trails, and on countless other outdoor activities, like running errands, dog walking in the rain, music festivals, biking around town, playground runs with kids, and even a few rounds of golf.
We compared them against other lightweight waterproof hiking shoes in our rotation, including some of our favorites like the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX and On Cloudrock Low Waterproof, to evaluate traction, comfort, protection, durability, and waterproofing across similar conditions.
While we wouldn’t reach for the Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX on technical alpine routes or when carrying a heavy pack, it’s been an absolute staple for daily wear and moderate day hikes, consistently delivering comfort, grip, and waterproof reliability through all four seasons.
Sleek and modern, the Moab Speed 2 GTX blends trail performance with an everyday look. Photo by Steve Redmond
Performance in the field
Fit and sizing
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX fits true to size for both men and women. I tested the women’s version; I have high-volume, D-width feet that typically fall between 7.5 and 8, and found the 7.5 fit spot-on. They were comfortably snug through the heel and midfoot with plenty of room in the toe box.
Our men’s tester, who usually wears an 11.5 to 12, found the 11.5 fit well, and were secure, without pressure points or the need to size up. Because the Moab Speed 2 leans toward a sneaker-like fit, there’s no break-in period required. The upper flexes naturally with your stride, making them an easy pick for anyone who values out-of-the-box comfort and a forgiving fit.
Merrell also offers the Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX in wide sizes for women and men.
Comfort and support
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX has just enough structure to keep you supported without sacrificing any freedom of movement. Unlike a stiff mid-height boot, it lets your ankles flex easier, making it great for faster-paced hikes or long days on your feet.
The FloatPro Foam midsole delivers soft, springy cushioning underfoot that absorbs impact well on hard surfaces and long descents. Merrell has added 30% more foam than the previous version. Even after hours of wear, it stays comfortable and lively, without that heavy, fatiguing feeling you sometimes get from stiffer models (like the much-burlier KEEN Targhee IV Low Waterproof, for instance).
The midsole has 30% more foam than the previous model for extra cushion. Photo by Steve Redmond
The arch support sits in the moderate range; it's stable enough hiking on easy to moderate trails with uneven ground but neutral enough to suit most foot types. For technical trails, we’d recommend something with a stiffer chassis or more structured midsole, like the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX or HOKA Kaha 3 Low GTX, which offer greater underfoot control and support on steeper, rockier terrain.
Both testers found the fit comfortable straight out of the box, with no break-in period, hot spots, or pressure points. Combined with its light, breathable construction, the Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX stands out as an all-day comfort shoe that keeps you moving freely without sacrificing support.
Traction and grip
After seven seasons of wearing the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX, the Vibram TC5+ outsole has proven its worth. The grip feels secure and reliable, even on muddy descents and slick wooden stairs, and gives this shoe a “trust-your-step” feel. We also have to give it up for its versatility on pavement; we’ve worn them on icy sidewalks and have always remained upright.
The 4mm lugs feature tiny, grippy “teeth” on the edges that bite well into most surfaces, whether it’s slick rock or packed dirt. The wider lug spacing also helps shed debris well. They don’t bite as well in loose gravel or heavy mud as a shoe with deeper, more aggressive lugs like the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX or HOKA Anacapa 2 GTX, but they do shed debris easily and maintain solid traction on most packed trails.
The lugs have tiny “teeth” that help shed debris and grip better. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Durability of the outsole has also been impressive given our daily wear and its lightweight build. While the outer-edge lugs show visible rounding and wear, the overall tread has held up remarkably well given how often these shoes have been used. The rubber compound has softened slightly, but traction hasn’t noticeably declined, yet. Overall, it continues to deliver dependable grip, and we expect it to last for another couple seasons before we retire them from the trail.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole grips confidently on slick rock and packed dirt. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Waterproofing and breathability
With its GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, the Moab Speed 2 has handled Squamish’s wet trails and abundance of rainy days with ease. Through sustained downpours and multiple creek crossings, it has been perfect for shoulder-season hikes and year-round Pacific Northwest use. Even after hours in steady rain, our feet stay dry and comfortable, and the shoe’s ripstop upper sheds water efficiently without feeling heavy or soggy.
The dry time is moderate, faster than a leather hiker but slower than a non-waterproof mesh shoe. We’ve worn them in many downpours where they’ve been heavily soaked, and they dry out overnight and are ready to wear the next day.
They’re now partway through their second rainy fall/winter, I’m noticing the fabric is starting to get more saturated in heavy rain, so I plan to re-up the waterproof protection using a combo of the Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel and Nikwax Fabric and Leather Proof waterproofing spray (available in a duo pack). It’s an easy fix to get a lot more life out of your waterproof shoes.
As expected, the waterproofing does come with some trade-offs in breathability. On warm, dry days or high-output hikes, the interior can feel a touch warm compared to a non-waterproof hiking shoe, but not uncomfortably so. We found the fully synthetic upper breathed very well, and we still reached for these shoes on clear, sunny mid-summer days when temps were high.
If you don’t need waterproof hiking shoes, opting for the non-GORE-TEX version will provide extra breathability and will also save you some money. But for hikers who prioritize staying dry over max ventilation, we think the GORE-TEX version strikes a solid all-weather balance.
The GORE-TEX membrane provides reliable waterproofing without overheating on hot days. Photo by Ebony Roberts
Durability and construction
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX combines ripstop nylon and TPU overlays for a lightweight yet reasonably protective upper for moderate trail use. The lightly reinforced toe and heel caps hold up well to abrasion, but they aren’t designed for continual hard impacts or sharp rocks.
Expect the Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX to last for many seasons of day hiking, urban wear, and dog walks before showing major wear. After a year and a half, the stitching on our pairs has remained intact, the TPU overlays haven’t separated, and the upper is still completely attached to the midsole.
The cushioning underfoot is slightly compressed, but it continues to deliver structure and stability on trail. The Vibram TC5+ outsole is only finally starting to break down on the outer edges (after heavy concrete use). For everyday hiking and wet-weather versatility, it’s a durable, well-built option, just not one meant for carrying heavy packs or tackling rugged alpine routes.
Weight and packability
The Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX weighs 12.3 oz per shoe for the men’s version, and 10.6 oz per shoe for the women’s version. Compared to other low waterproof hiking shoes, that’s relatively lightweight for the category. It’s an ounce or two lighter per shoe than our favorite all-around hiking shoe, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX, but offset by the fact that it’s also a little less protective and supportive.
However, if you’re hiking quickly on mellower trails, the lighter feel can translate to less foot fatigue over long miles. Its light feel also makes it a shoe you’re more willing to reach for it for everyday outdoor wear. For travel, it’s an easy pick; great for airports and destination hiking trails.
Features
Lacing system
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 uses a classic lace-up system that’s simple, secure, and easy to dial in. Double eyelets at the top allow you to cinch down your ankle even tighter if needed. Loops on the heel and tongue make them quick to pull on or clip to a pack when you’re on the move.
Heel cup and ankle collar
The heel cup and ankle collar feel more sneaker-like than structured, with just a bit of light foot contouring for comfort. It’s a forgiving, out-of-the-box fit that still keeps your ankle securely locked down without any rubbing, and the padded collar adds a nice touch of softness for long days. It doesn’t seal out debris like shoes with snug, sock-style collars though, but the trade-off is a much roomier, more forgiving feel.
Toe cap protection
The synthetic heel and toe caps provide abrasion-resistant reinforcement for everyday trail hazards, though they’re lighter than hardcore rubber caps. They have just enough protection to keep you moving quickly through moderate conditions, but if you’re prone to toe-stubbing or hike frequently on rooty and rocky trails, you may consider looking elsewhere.
A closer look at the ripstop nylon upper and reinforced toe cap. Photo by Steve Redmond
Style and colorways
We're big fans of the Moab Speed 2’s sporty and modern look, which is easy to pair with both hiking gear and everyday clothes. We tested the synthetic GORE-TEX version, but it’s available in leather and non-leather, low and mid, and waterproof and non-waterproof versions, so there’s something for everyone.
The color lineup is also impressive, with a balance of bold combos and muted earth tones, plus some standout color blocking. And for once, the women’s options don’t fall short, with palettes just appealing as the men’s.
Sustainability notes
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX is made with 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining, a 50% recycled removable EVA footbed, and vegan-friendly materials.
Who should buy the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes
Buy if you want a waterproof, go-anywhere hiking shoe that feels as comfortable as a sneaker but grips like a trail shoe. The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX is ideal for people who want a sporty-looking, lightweight, supportive shoe that can handle weekend hiking trails, travel days, and everyday errands. It doesn’t have the full ankle support, stiffness, or added protection of a traditional hiking boot, but its comfort and versatility make it a great pick for most casual day hikers logging steady miles on mixed terrain.
Skip if you need maximum toe and side protection for technical, rocky terrain or plan to carry heavy loads where a sturdier hiking shoe makes more sense.
Where to buy
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes are popular footwear, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Similar products
Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
MSRP: $160
Weight: 2 lbs 1.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 10.1 oz (women's)
Waterproofing: Merrell DRY waterproof membrane
Upper: Pig suede leather/mesh
Midsole: Super Rebound Compound
Outsole: Vibram TC5+ rubber
The Moab 3 Waterproof is Merrell’s classic hiker, and its dependable protection, durable build, and comfortable fit have made it our pick for best affordable hiking shoe in our in-depth guides to the Best Women’s Hiking Shoes and the Best Men’s Hiking Shoes for many years.
The Moab is more of a workhorse than the Moab Speed 2–heavier and more traditional in feel, prioritizing structure and precision over agility. It has a leather and mesh upper, combined with a stiffer midsole and full rubber toe cap that offers excellent protection and longevity on rough terrain.
The Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX, on the other hand, is more modernized, leaning more towards the style of trail running shoes. It’s lighter, more breathable, and much more versatile off the trail. If you plan to hike in rugged or unpredictable terrain, the tougher Moab is worth considering. For lighter, faster adventures and all-around use, the Moab Speed 2 is a better fit.
Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
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Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
MSRP: $170
Weight: 1 lb 10.8 oz (men's), 1 lb 6.6 oz (women's)
Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
Upper:
Midsole: EnergyCell
Outsole: All Terrain Contragrip rubber
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is our winner for best all-around hiking shoe for women and men. It’s made for hikers who want a secure, supportive feel on everything from mellow day hikes to rough ground and long descents. It has a performance-oriented fit, with a stiffer chassis, and firmer cushioning that keeps you steady when carrying a pack or moving over uneven ground.
The Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX takes the opposite approach: it’s softer underfoot, roomier, and instantly comfortable, designed for casual day hikes and everyday wear. Both shoes deliver strong waterproofing and dependable grip, but the Salomon’s locked-in feel and lower volume suit technical hikers and more challenging terrain, while the Merrell’s comfort and versatility make it the better daily all-rounder.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
men's
Women's
Why you should trust us / About the Author
I’ve spent nearly a decade testing and reviewing outdoor gear for leading publications including Treeline Review, The New York Times’ Wirecutter, Outside Magazine, The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, REI Co-op, and Forbes Vetted. I’ve interviewed dozens of industry experts over the years, and hiked in 50+ pairs of hiking shoes and boots, logging plenty of trail miles in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. I understand that there’s no one best pair of hiking shoes for everybody, but there is the best pair for you, and I’m here to help you find it.
You can see all of Ebony’s Treeline Review stories on her author page.
