7 Best Merrell Hiking Boots in 2023

Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto on
7 Best Merrell Hiking Boots in 2023
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Merrell and hiking boots go hand in hand, like peanut butter and jelly. A pair or two of this perfect combination we know you’re desperate to own. To that end, we’ve tested 50+ Merrell trail boots and rounded up the best of what this brand has to offer.

Whether for daily hikes, pack adventures that last days, or escapades where you sprint more than walk, we have something quite compelling for you here. And if you’re wondering if Merrell hiking boots can also be affordable, you’re in for a treat!

How we test hiking boots

Here at RunRepeat, we are committed to delivering multi-faceted and unbiased reviews on the best Merrell hiking boots on the market. To realize this goal, we live by the following:

  • We purchase Merrell kicks using our own funds, allowing us to remain objective throughout our testing and review process.
  • Professional gear testers under our wing use every pair in various settings (terrain + weather conditions) to gauge where a given Merrell boot shines the brightest.
  • We include in the mix insightful reviews from numerous experts and a multitude of regular users alike.

With all that, each Merrell hiking boot receives what we call a CoreScore, which makes this list of top picks possible.

Best Merrell hiking boots overall

What makes it the best?

People who would give the Ontario Mid Waterproof a shot experience insane amounts of comfort and heaps of style. Hikers who invested in this true-to-size Merrell piece are mind-blown by its stellar grip performance on the trail. It is just a shame, however, that this incredibly lightweight hiking boot might be too restrictive widthwise for some.

Pros

  • Comfortable hiking boot
  • Astonishing grip over rough terrain
  • Jaw-dropping looks
  • Lightweight
  • Superbly supportive ankle zone
  • Flexible
  • Non-existent break-in period
  • Fantastic protectiveness against moisture

Cons

  • Unflatteringly too narrow
Full review of Merrell Ontario Mid Waterproof

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Boulder (J84846)
Gold (J03380)
Raisin (J65498)
SAILOR (J65507)
Black (J84899)

Best Merrell hiking boots for speed hiking

What makes it the best?

If dazzling your co-adventurers with quick and agile movements is what you have been dreaming of, the MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX must be on your radar. Yes, a strong dose of athleticism is yours in this hiker, all while giving you shielded comfort through the changing weather. As long as you keep to the manicured parts of the trail, this gear from Merrell can be the only boot that you will ever need.

Pros

  • Featherweight
  • Instant comfort
  • Incredible plushness
  • Watertight
  • Super-grippy outsole
  • Supportive

Cons

  • Below-average protection
  • Weak rubber bumper
Full review of Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Black White (J03422)

Best Merrell waterproof hiking boots

What makes it the best?

The sturdily built Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof is a decent choice for customers looking for a durable, comfortable, and breathable hiking boot. The majority was satisfied with its eye-catching looks and the excellent performance of the Gore-Tex lining in wet environments. Its sock-like fit aided wearers during ascents and descents, providing excellent grip on challenging terrains.

Pros

  • Great traction
  • Amazing looks
  • Easy break-in
  • Highly durable
  • Super breathable
  • Glove-like fit
  • Good for everyday wear

Cons

  • Poor underfoot support
  • Not waterproof enough
Full review of Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Brown (J06051)
Granito V2 (J03420)
Gold (J03332)
Espresso (J50363)
Walnut (J59837)
Black Gray Charcoal (J99759)
Beluga (J06053)
Granite (J06055)
More colors

Best Merrell day hiking boots

What makes it the best?

A mid-top kick laden with superlatives—this is a befitting description for the Moab 3 Mid. Seriously, this 3rd-gen Moab boot from Merrell has got to be the fluffiest summer kick, ready to impress you with its no-wobble construction as you pull off one surefooted step after another. And the best part is, this long-lasting boot has a list price that's a hit among the masses.

Pros

  • Incredibly supportive
  • Cloud-like plushness
  • Minimal break-in
  • Superb grip
  • Heavy-duty
  • Flushes out stuffiness
  • Prevents odor buildup
  • Easy on and off
  • Uberly low-priced

Cons

  • A tad heavy (women's version)
  • Squishy toe zone
Full review of Merrell Moab 3 Mid

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Granite (J03586)
Black Night (J03656)
Avocado (J03703)

Best Merrell hiking boots for backpacking

What makes it the best?

The Merrell Forestbound Mid WP is a heavy-duty leather boot that is touted for its fantastic performance on the trail. It has gotten high marks for its robust construction, high-quality cushioning, and sheer lightness. Despite some concerns over its ability to guard the feet against extreme rain and water, this shoe still makes a great pick for both recreational and serious hikers.

Pros

  • Top-notch comfort
  • Lightweight
  • Very supportive
  • Quality construction
  • Comfortable cushioning

Cons

  • Lack of waterproof qualities
  • Narrow boot
Full review of Merrell Forestbound Mid WP

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Brown (J16495)
Brown (J16497)
Grey (J03476)

Best value boot

What makes it the best?

This Merrell offering seems to capture the fancy of individuals, thanks primarily to its comfort and lightweight design. The boot’s waterproofness and surface traction also contribute to its stellar trail performance.

Pros

  • Insanely comfortable hiking boot
  • Lightweight
  • Waterproof
  • Excellent grip
  • Excellent ankle support
  • Zero break-in period

Cons

  • Insufficient arch support
  • Too warm
  • Boot’s lace loops broke off after a few uses
Full review of Merrell Yokota 2 Mid Waterproof

Today's best price

Men
Women
Any color
Bracken (J77375)
Boulder (J77381)
Tobacco (J03622)

Comparison of the 7 best Merrell hiking boots

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Best
CoreScore
Users rating
Experts
Best price
Ranking
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# of colorways

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Author
Paul Ronto
Paul Ronto

Over the past 20 years, Paul has climbed, hiked, and run all over the world. He has summited peaks throughout the Americas, trekked through Africa, and tested his endurance in 24-hour trail races as well as 6 marathons. On average, he runs 30-50 miles a week in the foothills of Northern Colorado. His research is regularly cited in The New York Times, Washington Post, National Geographic, etc. On top of this, Paul is leading the running shoe lab where he cuts shoes apart and analyzes every detail of the shoes that you might buy.