Verdict from 4 experts and 5 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Plush: Mighty comfy from the off is the Merrell Moab Speed GTX, and critics highly agree.
- Watertight: Seasoned bloggers find this shoe quite the impermeable hiker. One of them even said that it is reliable enough for occasional (shallow) stream-crossing.
- Sticky: According to gear pundits, the Moab Speed GTX provides “great traction in a variety of conditions,” including muddy slopes and rocky ascents.
- Featherweight: Trained testers are floored by the shoe’s undeniable lightness.
- Solid: Despite its minimal weight, this footgear is impressively supportive overall, professional reviewers say.
- Propelling: Excellent rebound is what you can expect from this hiker from Merrell.
1 reason not to buy
- Unflattering rearfoot: An expert is none too pleased with the Moab Speed GTX being prone to heel lift.
Bottom line
If free-spirited hikes are what you are after, then the Moab Speed GTX has to be on your wish list. Indeed, with its ridiculously bouncy underfoot platform and barely-there weight, this shoe will have you leaping when others find it hard to pull off a measly half-meter stride. It might take you several tries to make its heel obey (through proper lacing techniques), but past that, this hiker is a dream!
Tip: see the best hiking shoes.
Who is the Merrell Moab Speed GTX for?
Just by taking a quick glance at our profile section for the Moab Speed GTX, you should be able to get a clearer idea of whether the shoe in question is for you or not. That said, we have come up with the following to help you decide:
For trail-goers who run (sometimes)
While not exactly a pair of trail runners, the Merrell Moab Speed GTX is engineered to give you the boost you need, albeit in short bursts, for when you feel like running instead of walking. The segmented construction of its outsole (forefoot section) and the midsole’s heel being extra springy make bolting across trails relatively easy and comfortable.
For the bold hiker
Do you find yourself bumping your toes on twisty roots and low-level boulders more often than not? Then you will be happy to know that the Moab Speed GTX comes with a highly shock-absorbent toe guard, which is an extension of the shoe’s Vibram outsole.
For those who need extra heel stability
Hiking shoes are known for delivering sufficient balance over rugged terrain. The Moab Speed GTX, however, takes stability a bit further up by having a mildly fanned-out heel zone. Coupled with the springiness of the midsole, this Merrell piece can keep your footing as level as possible on moderately rocky surfaces.
For Merrell fans who love the environment
It is engineered with 100% recycled laces and mesh liner. The shoe’s footbed also comes with a 50% recycled top sheet, while its grippy outsole from Vibram is made with 30% recycled rubber. If you are advocating for a greener earth, the Moab Speed GTX is indeed a worthy outdoor companion.
Additional info
- Don the non-waterproof Moab Speed instead if your adventures happen mostly in dry months.
- For extra ankle support on top of what the featured hiker can do, opt for the Moab Speed Mid GTX.
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