I walked 316,000 steps in the Merrell Moab 3 in rain, sun, and mud — and if you need one pair of hiking shoes, make it these
Looking for one pair of hiking shoes that just gets the job done? Merrell. Moab. 3. Finished. I'm clocking out; my work here is done.
I jest, but the Merrell Moab 3 are seriously some of the best hiking shoes you can get. Everything about these shoes is expert-level: the 5mm grippy Vibram soles; the super-cushioned tongue and protective sides; the aesthetic. Not only do they look gorpcore-fashion-magazine-ready, but they're also functional. I wore them on long, long hikes, and my feet were comfortable from the off.
If you're looking for one pair of hiking shoes you can wear until they literally fall apart, I'd recommend the Moab 3. I walked 316,000 steps in these shoes during my testing period, and I didn't want to take them off. My personal hiking boots are the Merrell Accentor, which I've had since early 2022, and they're still fresh and fruity. No rips, no wearing down of the sole, no degradation in the fabrics. While I've only had the Moab 3 for a few months, judging by the sturdiness of the Accentor, I'd estimate they'll last a while.
Merrell also makes a waterproof version, but this style isn't discounted right now. I tested the non-waterproof version and found it waterproof enough for light rain or gently damp conditions. Obviously, don't go walking through rivers or paddling in streams wearing them. If that's how you spend your time, I'd recommend the Keen Hyperport H2.
If you want the waterproof version, it's $150 rather than $70.
What makes the Merrell Moab 3 so good?
There are three main reasons why the Merrell Moab 3 are some of the best hiking shoes out there.
- Supreme comfort
- Supportive, grippy soles
- Aesthetic
Now, I know some people aren't concerned with the appearance of hiking shoes, and that's fine. But, personally, I want a shoe that can do it all. I'm looking for one pair of hiking shoes that can also double up as everyday shoes — it's part of the reason why I love the Keen Jasper Zionic just as much as I love the Merrell Moab 3.
The Moab 3 are incredibly cushioned. If that's not your vibe, then, again, I'd recommend the Jasper Zionic instead. I can wear both types of shoe, so I love the Moab 3 for some days, and the Jasper Zionic for others.
What stood out to me about the Moab 3 was the performance during long hikes. I'm talking 3+ hours. The cushioned insole, tongue, and toe box helped my feet feel refreshed even after way too many miles. I wish the ankle was more supported, but this is a common issue with hiking shoes versus boots. Still, the ankle is extremely cushioned, but I would like a touch more support.
Lastly, the sole. The Moab 3 have a super-grippy custom Vibram rubber outsole with 5mm lugs. In my 4.5-star review, I wrote that "going uphill [is] a breeze due to the 5mm, grippy lugs, even in muddy environments. The sole is fantastic at finding a hold and gluing you to it without any input from you.
I added, "After a spate of wet weather, I embarked on a downhill stony path-slash-slimy death trap, and I didn’t slip once. I’ve slipped on this path while wearing the Keen Seek, but never while wearing the Keen Jasper Zionic. I was pleasantly surprised when I didn’t slip with the Moab 3s."
If I'm saying I didn't slip, that means something. I'm one of the clumsiest people ever to grace the planet. Or, would that be ungrace the planet? Nothing I do can be remotely described as "graceful" — but the Moab 3 help me get as close as possible.
The Merrell Moab 3 are a shoe that can genuinely do it all. Steep ascent in wet conditions? Yep! Steep descent in mud? Maybe more of a challenge, but yes! I recommend the Moab 3 for everyone who wants one pair of outdoor shoes that just get the job done.
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