Traditionally, hikers would use heavy duty hiking boots to cover rugged terrains and rocky trails. However, with the advancements in technology and materials, hiking trainers such as the Merrell Moab Speed, have established themselves as an excellent alternative.
Here is a short review on the Merrell Moab Speed hiking trainers and how I use them as part of my weekly outdoors routine.
At the time of writing this honest review of the Merrell Moab Speed, I’ve already been using these hiking trainers for more than 12 months.
They have been used for a lot of weekly activities, hence the clear wear on the trainers featured in this content. Ultimately, this has given me enough time to fully wear-test the Moab Speed and provide you with an honest review.
Vibram Sole
The Vibram Megagrip outsole provides excellent traction even on wet or slippery surfaces, which is crucial for any hiker. I’ve found the Moab Speed to be extremely grippy, great for trails, fells, even dog walking on road surfaces, handling slippy road surfaces really well during winter.
Whilst the tread is clearly more worn down vs a brand new pair of Moab Speed trainers, they still continue to provide me with enough traction for my less rigorous outdoor activities.
Comfort
I’ve owned a good number of hiking trainers by other brands, yet I’ve found the Merrell’s Moab Speed to be by far the most comfortable. The padded ankle makes your foot feel snug and supported at all times, a big positive for me and my skinny ankles.
Elsewhere, the midsole cushioning continues to surprise me on these trainers… how can they remain so comfortable after this amount of use!?
The FloatPro Foam™ midsole (described above), has to be one of the most durable, comfortable midsoles I’ve ever had the pleasure of wearing.
If comfort and cushioning are high on your list of priorities when looking for the best hiking trainers, then I’d highly recommend the Merrell Moab Speed.
Waterproof vs non-waterproof
Not every hiker believes in using waterproof hiking trainers. With trainers being low cut, they allow water in over the sides regardless, so having waterproof trainers will often make them less breathable to let the water escape.
The good thing is, the Moab Speed is available in waterproof and non-waterproof versions. I opted for the non-waterproof, and I have to say upon reflection, I made the right decision.
I mostly use these trainers for woodland walks, short fell walks, as well as dog walking on road. Therefore a GORE-TEX version would be wasted on me on this occasion. For wet hikes in the hills I’d always opt for a hiking boot, more so for it’s stability, as well as the additional waterproof feature.
It’s good to know Merrell cater for both however. I’ve owned waterproof hiking trainers in the past, and for early morning hikes, wading through grass dew, it can be so handy having a bit of protection against light moisture such as this.
Flexibility
For me, when it comes to challenging hikes in the Lake District, stiffness and support is high on my priority list. Unfortunately, the Merrell Moab Speed isn’t that. I’d argue is one of the more flexible hiking trainers on the market, which can be great for trails, possibly even running off-road – but for long hikes… they aren’t quite supportive enough for me.
Durability
Even though these trainers are super flexible, the fact that they continue to remain intact, with little to no obvious wear & tear on my Moab Speed trainers – makes them a highly durable trainer.
It doesn’t matter if you’re using them for challening hikes, light trails or dog walks – you want to get your money’s worth… you want them to last!
Overall, the Merrell Moab Speed gets my approval for their comfort, durability and fantastic grip. The perfect hiking shoe alternative to the traditional hiking boot.
Available in GORE-TEX version on Amazon at: