Merrell Moab Speed
Buy Merrell Moab Speed at today's best price (men's/women's)
5 minute read
Overview
The Merrell Moab Speed is a versatile hiking shoe designed to balance the agility of a trail runner with the durability of a traditional hiker. This model is part of the broader Merrell lineup, known for its commitment to quality and innovation in outdoor footwear.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Design: Weighing just 320 g for men and 298 g for women, the Moab Speed is one of the lightest in its category, making it ideal for day hikers who prioritize speed and comfort over rugged terrain.
- Sustainable Materials: Constructed with eco-conscious elements, including 30% recycled Ecodura Vibram rubber outsoles, it appeals to environmentally aware consumers.
- Comfort and Cushioning: Features like the padded ankle and Achilles collar, along with a removable EVA midsole, provide essential comfort and support, even on longer treks.
The Merrell Moab Speed is perfect for hikers who need a reliable, day-long comfort without the bulk of traditional hiking boots. Its innovative design offers a unique blend of lightweight agility and sustainable construction.
Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the cheapest 20% of hiking shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Merrell Moab Speed
The Merrell Moab Speed has garnered attention for its ultra-lightweight design and eco-friendly materials, making it a popular choice among environmentally conscious hikers. However, it falls short in providing the necessary support and stability for more technical, rocky terrains. The shoe's breathable mesh upper and Vibram EcoDura outsole offer good traction on groomed trails, but they do not perform well under challenging conditions or heavy loads. The comfort is notable, with features like extensive padding and a springy midsole, yet the overall fit and stability issues cannot be overlooked.
While the Moab Speed excels in lightweight construction and initial comfort, its performance on uneven surfaces and its durability under strain are concerns. For hikers needing a reliable shoe for non-technical day hikes or light activities, the Moab Speed might suffice. However, for those planning more demanding adventures, a sturdier option might be necessary. Overall, the Merrell Moab Speed is best suited for light hiking and short-duration treks, where comfort and weight are prioritized over rugged performance.
Comparable Shoes
The Merrell Moab 3 is often compared to the Merrell Moab Speed due to their shared lineage. The Moab 3 offers more robust support and durability, making it suitable for more rugged terrains and longer hikes. In contrast, the Moab Speed focuses on being lightweight and is better suited for less demanding trails and shorter durations.
6 Merrell Moab Speed Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Merrell Moab Speed is crafted from a lightweight mesh material, which contributes to the shoe's overall low weight. However, this design choice has led to some concerns about durability and stability, particularly when the shoe is subjected to rough terrain. The mesh upper is praised for its breathability, making it suitable for warm conditions, but it may not provide enough protection or support for more demanding hikes.
Midsole
The midsole of the Merrell Moab Speed features FloatPro Foam technology, offering a balance of comfort and lightness. This foam provides a 'springy' feel underfoot, which is appreciated during long walks. However, the midsole's support is not sufficient for carrying heavy loads or navigating very rocky paths, as it tends to compress under pressure.
Outsole
Equipped with a Vibram EcoDura outsole made from 30% recycled rubber, the Moab Speed offers decent traction on less challenging surfaces. The 4mm lug pattern is designed for day hiking but does not provide the aggressive grip needed for more technical trails, leading to potential slips and reduced confidence on uneven ground.
Size/fit
The Merrell Moab Speed is available in a range of sizes but has been noted for a fit that may not suit everyone. Some users find the fit a bit loose, particularly around the mid-foot, leading to slippage inside the shoe. This can reduce the overall stability and comfort, especially on uneven terrain.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Moab Speed, with its extensive padding around the tongue, ankle, and Achilles area. This design choice enhances the comfort for day hikers and casual wear but may contribute to the lack of breathability and snug fit needed for more rigorous activities.
Who should buy the Merrell Moab Speed?
The Merrell Moab Speed is ideal for day hikers and casual walkers who value lightweight footwear and are conscious of their environmental impact. It's well-suited for individuals looking for a shoe that offers comfort and style for short, non-technical hikes or everyday outdoor activities. Those who participate in day trekking without the need for heavy gear will find the Moab Speed adequate for their needs.
Who should not buy the Merrell Moab Speed?
The Merrell Moab Speed may not be the best choice for avid trekkers who frequently tackle rough, uneven terrains or those who require a shoe with high durability and superior traction. It's also not ideal for individuals with narrow feet or those who need a more secure fit to prevent foot movement within the shoe. Hikers planning to carry heavy packs or engage in multi-day treks should consider more robust options with better support and stability.
Merrell Moab Speed: What's it good for?
The Merrell Moab Speed is excellent for light day hikes and casual outdoor activities where agility and low weight are prioritized. It's also good for environmentally conscious consumers due to its use of sustainable materials. However, it's not suitable for technical terrains or heavy-duty use, where more specialized footwear would be necessary.
3 Merrell Moab Speed FAQs
Is the Merrell Moab Speed waterproof?
The Merrell Moab Speed comes in both non-waterproof and Gore-Tex versions. The non-waterproof version offers more breathability, while the Gore-Tex model provides enhanced water resistance, suitable for wet conditions.
Can the insoles of the Merrell Moab Speed be replaced with orthotic insoles?
Yes, the Merrell Moab Speed features removable insoles, which can be easily replaced with custom or orthotic insoles for better support and comfort.
How does the Merrell Moab Speed perform on wet surfaces?
The Merrell Moab Speed is equipped with a Vibram EcoDura outsole that provides decent traction on wet surfaces. However, its performance may not be as reliable on very slick or muddy terrains compared to more aggressively soled shoes.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | |
| released | ReleasedFeb 2021 | Jun 2023 | Mar 2020 | Jan 2024 | Jul 2023 | Apr 2023 |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 320 g W: 298 g | M: 349 g W: 295 g | 349 g | M: 312 g W: 249 g | M: 312 g W: 255 g | |
| Usages | UsagesDay hikingSpeed hiking | Day hikingSpeed hiking | Speed hiking | Day hikingLight hikingSpeed hiking | Day hikingUrban hiking | Speed hiking |
| Shoe Type | Shoe TypeLightweight | Lace-to-toeLightweight | Lightweight | Lace-to-toeLightweight | Lightweight | |
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Heel brake | Heel brake | |||||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Antimicrobial | Antimicrobial | |||||
| Wide toebox | Wide toebox | |||||
| Techs | TechsVibram | Merrell Air Cushion | Merrell Air CushionVibram | Merrell Air CushionVibram | Vibram | |
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental CharacteristicsVegan Ⓥ | Eco-friendlyVegan Ⓥ | Vegan Ⓥ | Eco-friendlyVegan Ⓥ | Eco-friendlyVegan Ⓥ | Eco-friendly |
Common characteristicsLow cut |
- Jan 2024
- Feb 2021
