Our verdict
Pros
- Exceptional support
- Max-level comfort
- No break-in period
- Quite grippy
- Durable
- Incredibly watertight
- True to size
- Exceedingly well-crafted
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- A bit too roomy
- Laces untie easily
- Somewhat warm
Who should buy the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof
The third-gen Moab Waterproof is a familiar yet still formidable trail kick from Merrell. Purchase it if:
- You've been a true-blue fan of the Moab series, which consists of truly hard-wearing shoes.
- Pushing your hiking game to the limit is how you roll.
- You believe that luxurious comfiness needs not to be earned.
Who should NOT buy it
With no issues with its regular width and shoestrings, the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is a great alternative to the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof. Also, if extra breathability is what you're after in hiking shoes, check out the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX .
Titanic traction in every pair
Tons of stickiness is what the Moab 3 Waterproof has! Talk about downhill routes, slick rocks, single-track soft ground trails.. the grip on this shoe never failed us!
Get massive support in the Moab 3 Waterproof
When we went for a longer hike, we especially felt the support in this shoe. It felt as if our feet could go further with tons of support throughout the arch. It's something we don't see often so 10/10 for support!
And, of course, we loved the not-so-tired feel in the feet after the hike.
Astonishingly comfy right away
This pillow-like hiker comes with zero break-in. What more could we ask for? From the box to the 20-mile hike - YES. Instant comfort, thank you.
Wanted: Thicker socks
We found that this shoe is great for hikes who have wider feet - not just in the toebox, but throughout. Because of this, we had to wear somewhat thicker socks, but we were not bothered by that. Even better, merino socks + winter hikes, perfect combo for these hikers.
Not the clingiest of laces
We did have some issues with the laces. The tubular design makes them untie often. If only they were flat. So, a double knot it is.
The Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof knows no wear and tear
These are just as durable as they look! After numerous test hikes we failed to put a dent in them.
Boss-like in bad weather
We felt totally triumphant after finishing our hike with completely dry feet. Waterproofing on these hikers work wonderfully.
But it might not be ideal in warm conditions
As is true in most waterproof shoes, including GTX-engineered ones, the third-generation Moab Waterproof can get somewhat stuffy in warm conditions. You've been warned. Beware of hot weather.
