Merrell Ontario 85 Mid Waterproof review
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all hiking boots.
This shoe has a 9% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn moreVerdict from 2 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Comfortable footgear
- Extremely lightweight
- Remarkably grippy outsole
- Waterproof
- Short break-in period
Cons
- When the top portion is tightened, the bottom part loosens
- Too much excess fabric

83% say it's true to size.
Out of stock in all 50 shops
Merrell hiking bootsRankings
- Our 1st pick in best vintage hiking boots
- Our 1st pick in best waterproof hiking boots for women
- Top 14% in hiking boots
- Top 5% in Merrell hiking boots
Comparison to similar hiking boots
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Who should buy the Merrell Ontario 85 Mid Waterproof
The Ontario 85 Mid Waterproof is an outstanding Merrell piece, thanks to its collection of hike-focused pros. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a retro-inspired hiking boot furnished with exclusive features to help wearers address a variety of trail-specific challenges in the modern age.
- Prefer a hiking boot that gives users a combination of comfort, protection, and flexibility.
- Prefer an ankle-supportive hiker that is adequately watertight, thanks to the company-owned tech known as M Select Dry.
Provides sufficient surface traction over different types of terrain
This boot is armed with a rubber outsole from Vibram to give nature seekers as much adhesive power as possible while on the trail. It uses Vibram’s Megagrip compound, which provides sufficient surface traction over different types of terrain, come rain or shine.
Multi-directional grip
There are aggressive treads and 3-mm deep lugs engineered all around it to grant trail enthusiasts a multi-directional grip and enhanced skid resistance over loose soil.
Comfortable and stable cushioning
A compression-molded midsole, which is made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), is what provides ample cushioning and stability in the Ontario 85 Mid Waterproof. It is built with Merrell’s Air Cushion technology at the heel for improved shock absorption.
Provide extra support
The midsole’s underfoot comfort is amplified by the brand-exclusive Kinetic Fit Base insole. This contoured removable footbed also provides extra support.
Breathable and waterproof
The cozy upper of the Merrell Ontario 85 Mid Waterproof is a combination of suede leather and heavy-duty fabric by Cordura. It has a breathable liner made of mesh and a kind of tongue that fences out debris. A waterproof membrane called M Select Dry (which the Moab 2 Mid Waterproof also has) lines its main bootie. This proprietary waterproofing also promotes ventilation.
Secure fit
This boot of a hiker uses D-rings and metallic hooks for eyelets. A synthetic lace is set through these combination eyelets by default, completing the boot’s fit management system.