Hiking Boots
Merrell Moab 3
Best for: beginner hikers and everyday trail walking on a budget
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The Moab line's reputation as the default first hiking boot holds up in the Moab 3 — it is the boot owner reviews describe as forgiving of a bad size call and comfortable within a day or two, which matters most to hikers who are not going to break in a stiffer boot before a trip. The tradeoff reviewers name most is longevity: the airbag heel cushioning that makes it comfortable early is also what several long-term owners report compressing and losing support after a season or two of regular use.
Pros
- Comfortable close to out of the box — minimal break-in reported by most owners
- Wide toe box fits a broader range of foot shapes than most competitors in this price tier
- Lowest price point of any boot in this roundup without an obvious corresponding drop in trail capability
Cons
- Cushioning and support reported to compress noticeably after roughly a season of regular use
- Waterproofing is less consistently praised than Gore-Tex boots in this list — some owners report seam leaks over time
- Traction on wet rock and roots is rated behind the Salomon and La Sportiva in this roundup
Where to buy
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