Updated Jun. 13, 2024
These boots are made for walking—on the trail, that is! Each of these picks for the best Merrell hiking shoes were tested and reviewed by Family Handyman editors.
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Since 1981, Merrell hiking boots have blended comfort, style and function into their collection of well-loved hiking shoes and accessories. For Family Handyman editors who can’t stop hitting the trail before the snow flies, Merrell is a trusted brand that offers high-quality shoes that last season after season. Merrell’s selection of lightweight, rugged footwear just can’t be beat. They have hundreds of styles that come in both regular and extended sizes—a rarity when it comes to hiking gear.
With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of boots available on the hiking and camping gear retailer’s site. Luckily, our editors have plenty of experience with the brand. Below are the best Merrell hiking shoes, tested by our editors. Whether you’re seeking something lightweight, waterproof or durable (or all three), there’s something for everyone.
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Crafted from recycled materials and featuring a breathable mesh lining, the Antora 3 is our favorite all-around hiking shoe. It’s also one of Merrell’s flagship shoes, featuring several enhancements against its two predecessors. Smart details such as a rock plate for extra protection while scaling steep terrain, plus the addition of air cushion for shock absorption make this a top find for hikers both new and accomplished. At less than 10 pounds and boasting a Vibram TC5+ outsole for better grip, it comes in on top of this list of the best Merrell hiking shoes. It’s also our favorite choice as a gift for hikers.
‘”The Antora 3 is a trail-running shoe for those who want a little speed,” says Editor Mary Henn. “If you’re looking for a shoe that is lightweight and will let you move quickly, this is it. These are one of the most comfortable pair of tennis shoes I’ve owned—sometimes I wear them out and about with athleisure clothes because they’re that comfortable.”
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In our review of the Hydro Moc, Merrell’s waterproof version of their classic Moc style, we praise this waterproof slip-on as the perfect find for lazy days, camping and even running errands. The Hydro Moc features a modern EVA foam construction for ample durability in the water. A slew of stylish colors rounds out this water shoe, and the generous foam padding makes it ideal for everyday wear.
Mary notes that she loves her Hydro Mocs so much that she wears them almost everywhere. “I also love that I can wear them everywhere without worrying about dirtying them or scuffing them,” says Mary. She continues, “The foam slip-ons are incredibly easy to clean and wipe down—even the white pair! I like that water doesn’t collect in or adhere to the shoes. Water rolls right off the Hydro Moc, so I could step into the river and then walk a little way down to scout a new fishing spot and my feet would be dry by the time I landed.”
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Those of us who enjoy hiking know how important it is to preserve these serene forested spaces. If you’re searching for the best women’s hiking boots that are also good for the environment, look no further than the Moab Speed Scrap. With more than 50% of the shoe coming directly from scraps and recycled materials, each purchase means less plastic in our landfills.
“The Moab Speed Scraps are a new, sustainable take on the classic Merrell Moab Speeds,” says Mary. “They’re made from leftover production materials and scraps, so that overall production waste can be reduced! The Moab Speed Scraps are like a hybrid of a hiking shoe and trail running shoe. The sturdy outer sole is thick enough for just about any terrain on a moderate trail, but they’re lightweight enough for quick movement. These are my go-to shoes for moderate trails and casual hikes.”
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The Unlikely Hikers and Merrell line features an assortment of body-positive slogans and bright colors on the brand’s bestselling boots, tees and belt bags. To shop the Merrell x Unlikely Hikers collection, visit the collaboration’s landing page on Merrell’s website.
“The Merrell and Unlikely Hikers collaboration is one of my all-time favorite Merrell collabs,” says Mary. “The Moab 3 X Unlikely Hikers are a stunning shoe that goes with any trail outfit or outdoor gear because they feature a rainbow of colors. Moabs are Merrell’s most popular hiking shoe for a reason. They’re great for rugged trails and long hikes. I grab these when I know I’m going to be on the trails for a while.”
Merrell really does have something for everyone, but when shopping for shoes the options can seem a little overwhelming. To help narrow down your choice, here are some things to keep in mind.
The Moab Hiking Collection is one of Merrell’s most popular lines. The Moab 3s are a new and improved version of the Moab 2s. They feature a newer design, improved durability, fit and other technological features.
This depends on your personal preference. Hiking boots offer a little bit more ankle support, but they can be clunkier and heavier and take longer to break in. Hiking shoes tend to be more lightweight and still offer enough foot and ankle support to keep you agile and safe on the trails.
Originally Published: March 22, 2024
