Hiking Boot Review: Merrell Moab 2
I am excited to do my first gear review on a boot that is easily one of the best I have ever worn. In fact, I like these boots so much that I bought a pair of the Moab 2 Tactical boots for a job that I had. I bought my boots in 2017 before a trip to the Grand Canyon and am still wearing them today. They have hiked on safaris in Africa, climbed glaciers in Iceland, and toured ancient ruins in Athens. After countless dog walks in the neighborhood on top of all the adventures they have been on they are still in good shape and comfortable. I highly recommend a pair of these boots to anyone whether a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for their first pair of hiking boots.
Design and Features
The Merrell Moab 2 is designed with hikers in mind but looks just as good in the city as it does on the trail. When I travel, I prefer to only bring one pair of shoes, so I need something that will work well as a casual shoe and a comfortable hiking shoe. The Merrell Moab 2 fits the bill. The shoe features a Vibram sole for excellent traction on a variety of terrains, a reinforced toe cap for added durability, and a breathable mesh upper for ventilation on hot days. The boot is available in both waterproof and non-waterproof versions. I have the waterproof version, which keeps my feet dry in all but the worst conditions.
Comfort
The Merrell Moab 2 is one of the most comfortable hiking shoes I’ve worn. No break in period was needed and they were great out of the box. I prefer a mid-cut boot for more ankle support and these boots provide enough support. The shoe features a contoured footbed that provides excellent arch support and cushioning, reducing fatigue on longer hikes. The shoe also has a roomy toe box, which allows for natural toe splay and prevents blisters.
Performance
The Merrell Moab 2 performs exceptionally well on the trails. The Vibram sole provides excellent traction on both wet and dry terrain, while the reinforced toe cap protects your feet from rocks and other debris. The shoe also has a stability shank that provides support on uneven terrain and helps prevent ankle twists.
Durability
The Merrell Moab 2 is built to last. The shoe features a durable leather and mesh upper that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The Vibram sole is also highly durable and will last for many hikes to come. I’m going my fifth year of owning my Moab 2s and have not had any issues with durability. Other than normal scuffing and wear I have not had any problems with my shoes.
Sizing and Fit
The Merrell Moab 2 fits true to size and has a comfortable, secure fit. I wear a men’s size 10 in almost every shoe type, and they fit me perfectly. The insoles are comfortable and have good arch support. They do a good job keeping me comfortable even when I spend long days on my feet.
Weight
When compared to other hiking shoes in the market, the Merrell Moab 2 shoes hold their own. Weighing in at 2 pounds, the Moab 2 is comparable to other shoes in its price range. For most hikers and backpackers, the Merrell Moab 2 provides an excellent combination of weight and comfort.
Conclusion
When it comes to hiking shoes, the Merrell Moab 2 is a top performer. With its durable construction, excellent traction, and comfortable fit, it’s the perfect shoe for any hiking adventure. If you’re in the market for a new pair of hiking shoes, I highly recommend the Merrell Moab 2.
Links to buy on Amazon. Merrell Moab 2 Merrell Moab 2 Tactical
