7 Best Merrell Hiking Boots in 2023
We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us.
Why trust us
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
Merrell Ontario Mid Waterproof
89
Great!
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$99
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
Best Merrell hiking boots for speed hiking
Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid GTX
81
Good!
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$88
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
Best Merrell waterproof hiking boots
Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof
88
Great!
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
More colors
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$68
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$75
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$105
Shoebacca
Free shipping & returns
$145
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$145
Campmor
Free shipping
$145
Best Merrell day hiking boots
Merrell Moab 3 Mid
86
Great!
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$72
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$104
Backcountry
Free shipping
$120
REI
Free shipping
$120
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$120
Sun and Ski
Free shipping
$120
Best Merrell hiking boots for backpacking
Merrell Forestbound Mid WP
85
Great!
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$71
Moosejaw
Free shipping
$98
Eastern Mountain Sports
$140
Zappos
Best value boot
Merrell Yokota 2 Mid Waterproof
83
Good!
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
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Free shipping
$59
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
Most popular Merrell hiking boots
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
85
Great!
What makes it the most popular?
In the Moab 3 Mid Waterproof from Merrell, there's a greater sense of solid maneuverability, whether on moderately rocky trails or muddy footpaths. While a full-fledged day hiking boot, this immensely comfy offering is highly mobile, surprising many trail-goers as it also provides a ton of support (particularly around the ankle). We just wish it's as fantastic at giving surefootedness as it is at staving off moisture.
Pros
- Remarkably supportive
- Fantastic grip level
- Pillow-like plushness
- Zero break-in
- Run-able flexibility
- Lightweight
- Warm in wintry conditions
- Above-average stability
Cons
- Questionable waterproofing
- Subpar breathability
- Its lugs get caked with mud easily
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$75
Backcountry
Free shipping
$116
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$122
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Free shipping
$145
REI
Free shipping
$145
Shoebacca
Free shipping & returns
$145
Comparison of the 7 best Merrell hiking boots
+ + Add a product | + + Add a product | + + Add a product | + + Add a product | + + Add a product | + + Add a product | + + Add a product | + + Add a product | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best | ||||||||
| CoreScore | ||||||||
| Users rating | ||||||||
| Experts | ||||||||
| Best price | ||||||||
| Ranking | ||||||||
| Popularity | ||||||||
| # of colorways |
-
