How to Choose Hiking Boots and Shoes

Comfort is queen on the trail, and these women's Merrell GORE-TEX hiking boots deliver. This iteration is updated with 30% more foam underfoot as well as improved breathability and traction.


Imported.
View the Merrell Moab Product LineView all Merrell Women's Day Hiking Boots| Best Use | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Footwear Height | Over-the-ankle |
| Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Type of Waterproofing | GORE-TEX waterproof membrane |
| Upper | Nylon ripstop/TPU |
| Lining | Recycled mesh |
| Midsole | FloatPro foam |
| Support | FlexPlate |
| Outsole | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
| Weight (Pair) | 1 lb. 8.7 oz. |
| Gender | Women's |
| Sustainability | Contains recycled materials |
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I hiked around Iceland this week and these shoes got me through the toughest parts. I absolutely recommend getting them. They were comfortable and true to size. I wear a size 8 US (women's) and I didn't need to size up or anything. They were comfortable out of the box and took no time to feel broken in. They were completely waterproof as I did a lot of creek crossings and even forded the river that feeds into the Glymur waterfall. On my way to some natural hot springs I stepped in some deep mud, but most of it came off of the shoes right away and none of it got on my feet inside my shoes. I love the sprig color too. I thought because it was such a light color it would get dirty and discolored quickly, but it has held up everywhere. This was my most valuable purchase for my Iceland trip so far. And to make it even better the shoes aren't made with any animal products. When I need new hiking boots I'll definitely be looking for this brand and style again.
Absolutely LOVE these boots! I’ve had them for about three years now and have easily put over 200 miles of walking and hiking into them—and they still look practically brand new. I was a little nervous about the color at first, but honestly, they’ve been much easier to keep clean than I expected. I haven’t had a chance to fully test the waterproofing yet, so I can’t speak much to that aspect. I did size up by half a size, and the fit is incredibly comfortable. I could honestly wear these all day, every day without any issues. They’re lightweight but still provide great ankle support, which is something I really prefer over trail runners. These boots have been with me on countless trips across the country and have never let me down. Highly recommend!
I was unsure about these boots at first, but they turned out to be absolutely perfect for my 7‑day Salkantay Trek. I sized up from my usual 7.5 to an 8, and the fit was spot‑on—secure, comfortable, and roomy enough for swelling at altitude. They required zero break‑in, and the foam cushioning kept my feet comfortable all week. Even with long days, steep climbs, and big descents, my feet never hurt and my toes stayed unbruised. The waterproofing was flawless. It rained nearly every day, and we crossed rushing streams, mud, and deep muck—yet my feet stayed completely dry. The traction handled loose rock and uneven terrain with ease, giving me confidence on both the climbs and the long downhills. After a full week on the trail, I finished with no blisters, no soreness, and no foot fatigue. These boots exceeded every expectation. Highly recommended for Salkantay or any multi‑day trek with mixed terrain and wet conditions.
The sizing on these seems to be incredibly inconsistent: I would not recommend purchasing them unless you can try on the EXACT pair you're purchasing in-store. I tried on two pairs of 6.5s that were remarkably different sizes (one fit well, one was exaggeratedly small) and two pairs of 7s that were remarkably different sizes (one fit a bit large, one had my feet swimming). TL/DR: The three sizes I tried on in store (6.5, 6.5, 7) were all very inconsistently sized, which led to me ordering a size online (7) that didn't fit well. I don't trust the sizing on the Merell Speed 2 unless you can actually try on the pair that you'll walk away with.
Love these boots! I started wearing these straight out of the box for my 2 week trip to Iceland. From city walks to hiking through snow, ice and creeks, these boots kept me warm, dry and comfortable. The GoreTex upper works extremely well, even when my foot got submerged in water. The traction was great for hiking up into the highlands and around the city. And the cushioning/materials kept my feet comfy and dry all day. Would highly recommend if you’re looking for a versatile boot.
I had such high hopes for these shoes but they do fall short in a few areas. Sole wise, they have great grip and I do not slip. I tested them by walking into a creek and they are DEFINITELY waterproof. They are comfy on 1-2 mile hikes but I worry for how they will be on long hikes, especially backpacking trips. They are pretty loose starting at the ankle on upwards causing the foot to slide around some. Also on the left shoe, because of the looseness, the side of the shoe digs into my body. I would worry it would cause sores or blisters. I want to love them but I need boots that can hold up for long haul multi day backpacking trips and I just don't think these can do that.
I have chronic knee pain that has not let me hike for years. Just went on a hike in Desolation Wilderness to break these in & I have never worn a shoe/boot that supported my knees so well. I can't wait for my upcoming hikes & backpacking trips. These boots gave me my knees back.
Holes at the toe-crease after 10 days of city walking! I have orthotics and have a hard time finding shoes I can walk in that don’t cause foot agony. The original Moab speed winter version have been a success so I had high hopes for these boots. I have worn the boots 10 times in the last 11 days, city walking only, I haven’t even tested out the waterproofness yet! Both boots have worn a hole where the toe boxes creases. So disappointed 😢
I needed lightweight and comfortable hiking boots that did not need breaking in for a last minute trip on some steep volcanic islands. Honestly quite impressed because I put these boots through the wringer. Survived a few thousand feet of elevation gain/loss on steep, muddy, and rocky terrain. Wider toe box than most boots but still with some arch support. Great traction with minimal wear on the tread after this two week period. Waterproofing held up until I repeatedly submerged them, quick drying even in a humid environment and being completely waterlogged. Only complaint is they cut into my ankles at first, but this improved with wear. I don't expect these to be very durable or last long term for me, but I bet these boots would rock for someone putting the expected use and wear on these.
I loved these boots and hiked many miles in CO in them. They even stood up well to 93 miles on the Wonderland Trail. They require very little break-in, but I would recommend switching out the insole especially if you pronate. Unfortunately, after owning them for just two years, they are coming apart at the seams and losing their waterproofing. I bought these lightly used as a garage sale item, so I guess I can't complain too much and feel like I got my money's worth out of them. But if you're wanting a boot that's going to last you for years, or one that will stand up to daily abuse for more than a year or two, this probably isn't it.