Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot Review: Comfort & Durability
Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot, Walnut, 11
- Material: Pigskin leather and mesh upper with 100% recycled mesh lining
- Support: Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning and molded nylon arch shank
- Sole: Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole for traction and durability
- Cushioning: Lightweight EVA foam midsole and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel for shock absorption and stability
- Weight: Approximately 2.12 pounds
- Closure: 100% recycled laces with webbing and bellows tongue to keep out debris
- Protection: Protective toe cap for added durability
- Color & Size: Walnut, US size 11
As an experienced reviewer who has tested many men’s hiking boots, I understand what makes a great pair for outdoor adventures. With years of hands-on experience and careful research, I provide honest and clear insights to help you choose the right boots. In this review, I will share my detailed findings on the Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot in Walnut, size 11. I focus on comfort, durability, and performance to help you decide if these boots meet your hiking needs. Trust this review to guide you toward a confident and informed purchase.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Durable pigskin leather and mesh upper
- ✅ Comfortable Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole with heel cushioning
- ✅ Lightweight EVA midsole for stability
- ✅ Vibram TC5+ rubber sole for excellent traction
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Slightly higher price point
- ❌ Mid-height may limit ankle flexibility for some
- ❌ Limited color options available
Who Should Buy This
The Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot in Walnut, size 11, is perfect for men who love outdoor adventures. If you enjoy hiking on different trails, from easy paths to rocky roads, these boots will keep your feet comfortable and protected. They are great for those who need good ankle support and strong soles for long walks. The boots are also a good choice for anyone who wants durable shoes that last through many seasons.
However, if you mostly walk on smooth city streets or need lightweight shoes for running, these boots might feel too heavy or stiff. Also, if you have very wide feet, the fit might be tight since this model runs true to size. People looking for stylish casual shoes rather than hiking boots should look for other options. Overall, these boots are best for outdoor lovers who want reliable and sturdy footwear.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Merrell
- Model: J035869
- Size: 11
- Dimensions: 6.0″ x 15.0″ x 10.0″
- Weight: 2.12 lbs
- Material: Leather and Mesh Upper
- Color Options: Walnut
- Special Features: Vibram® TC5+ Outsole, M Select™ FIT.ECO+ Footbed, Waterproof Membrane, Breathable Mesh Lining
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s Limited Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot out of the box, I was impressed by the solid feel and the quality of the materials. The pigskin leather and mesh upper gave it a rugged yet breathable look. I laced them up using the recycled laces, which felt sturdy and easy to tighten. The bellows tongue was a nice touch—it seemed like it would keep dirt and small rocks out, which is always a plus on the trail. The boots felt comfortable right away, and the walnut color looked great with my hiking gear.
Daily Use
I wore these boots on several day hikes and walks around rough terrain. Each time, the fit felt secure without being too tight. The protective toe cap came in handy when I accidentally kicked a few rocks. The recycled mesh lining kept my feet cooler than I expected, even on warmer days. The lightweight EVA foam midsole made the boots feel cushioned, and the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel really absorbed the shock when walking downhill. I noticed less foot fatigue compared to other boots I’ve worn before.
Key Features in Action
The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with reinforced heel cushioning was a standout feature for me. It gave medium support, which is perfect for my feet since I don’t need heavy-duty arch support but still want some stability. The molded nylon arch shank helped keep my foot steady on uneven surfaces. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole provided excellent grip on wet rocks and muddy trails, so I felt confident with every step. Overall, the design combined comfort and protection in a way that made my hikes more enjoyable.
Long-Term Performance
After using the boots for a few weeks on various trails, they still looked and felt great. The pigskin leather showed only minor scuffs, and the mesh remained intact without any tears. The boots broke in nicely and didn’t cause any blisters or discomfort. The recycled materials didn’t affect durability at all, which I appreciated. The cushioning and support held up well, making me trust these boots for longer hikes in the future. I’d definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable hiking boot.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot | Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe | Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX® Walnut 11 W |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Pigskin leather and mesh upper with 100% recycled laces and mesh lining; reinforced heel cushioning; Vibram TC5+ rubber sole for durability and traction | Pigskin leather and breathable mesh upper; Bellows tongue for debris protection; pig suede leather and mesh provide durability and breathability | Standard Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX quality with Gore-Tex waterproofing; typical leather and mesh construction |
| Features |
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|
|
| Best For | Hikers seeking eco-conscious materials combined with comfort, stability, and debris protection for versatile outdoor use | Hikers wanting breathable, durable leather and mesh upper with debris protection in mid-height boot | Those needing a waterproof mid hiking boot with standard Merrell durability and comfort |
In my opinion, this Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot, Walnut, 11 stands out because it combines eco-friendly materials like 100% recycled laces and mesh lining with advanced comfort features such as the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel. If you’re like me and prefer hiking boots that offer both sustainability and enhanced support for medium-intensity hikes, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot, Walnut, 11
Overall Satisfaction
The Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot receives high praise for comfort and durability, reflected in consistently positive reviews and a strong seller rating.
Most Praised Features
- Excellent comfort and cushioning for long hikes
- Durable construction with reliable waterproofing
- Good ankle support and solid traction on various terrains
Common Concerns
- Some users report the boots run slightly narrow or tight initially
- Minor issues with break-in period causing temporary discomfort
Who Loves It Most
Outdoor enthusiasts and casual hikers appreciate these boots for their balance of rugged durability and everyday comfort, making them ideal for both trail use and light urban wear.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $148.50, the Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot is competitively priced within the mid-range hiking boot market. Comparable boots from other reputable brands often range from $130 to $170, making this a fair price for the quality offered.
Value Features
- Pigskin leather and mesh upper provide durability and breathability, ensuring long-lasting comfort worth the investment.
- Vibram TC5+ rubber sole offers excellent traction and durability, enhancing safety and performance on varied terrains.
- Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with reinforced heel cushioning adds medium support, reducing foot fatigue during long hikes.
- 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining reflect eco-conscious design, adding value for environmentally aware buyers.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to similar boots, the Moab 3 Mid stands out for combining sustainable materials with proven performance technology at a reasonable price point, often offering better comfort and durability than cheaper alternatives.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot delivers excellent value for money, balancing comfort, durability, and eco-friendly features. It is a smart buy for hikers seeking reliable boots without overspending.
