Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe Review: Solid performance with recycled materials

The Merrell Men's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe has been a staple for hikers for quite some time. Coming in at size 10.5 with a color option named Black Night, it’s clear Merrell is aiming for both functionality and style. The Moab series is well-known among outdoor enthusiasts, and the latest iteration promises a few upgrades over its predecessors.

This shoe is touted as the world's bestselling hiking shoe, and for good reason. It's designed to provide comfort right out of the box, which is something I noticed immediately after trying them on. There’s nothing worse than having to break in a pair of hiking shoes, and thankfully, that wasn’t the case here.

Merrell has maintained the core elements that made the previous models popular, like durability and versatility, while introducing some new features. More supportive insoles and a softer midsole are new additions that are meant to enhance the hiking experience.

Overall, the introduction of partially recycled fabrics aligns with a growing trend in sustainable manufacturing. It’s a nice touch to know you’re not only buying a reliable product but also one that’s a bit more eco-friendly.

The design of the Merrell Moab 3 is straightforward yet effective. The shoe combines pigskin leather and mesh, giving it a rugged yet breathable profile. This is critical in hiking, where durability and ventilation go hand-in-hand. The shoe also features a protective toe cap, which I found useful when navigating rocky terrains.

A thing I liked about the design is the bellowed tongue. It keeps out debris and adds an extra layer of comfort. I’ve been on hikes where small stones have ruined the day, so this feature proved to be quite beneficial. The black night color is pretty standard, nothing flashy, but it does what it needs to do.

Another design element worth mentioning is the 100% recycled laces and webbing. It's a small touch, but in today’s world, those things add up. Plus, the fit was true to size, which isn’t always the case with hiking shoes.

Overall, the design strikes a balance between function and form. It’s not the most stylish thing you’ll wear, but when you’re a mile into a hike, looking cool isn’t the priority. Comfort and protection are, and this shoe handles those aspects well.

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to hiking shoes, and the Moab 3 delivers on this front. One of the first things I noticed was the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole. It’s got a reinforced heel cushioning, which adds medium support. For someone like me who spends hours on trails, this is a godsend.

The midsole is made from lightweight EVA foam, contributing to both stability and comfort. After a couple of hikes, I didn’t experience the usual foot fatigue that can come from less cushioned shoes. It’s clear Merrell put thought into making these shoes as comfortable as possible right from the start.

Another point worth mentioning is the shoe's fit. It was snug but not too tight. The lace system helps adjust the fit to your liking, which is crucial for those long treks. Over time, the shoe molded well to my feet, adding to the overall comfort level.

The only downside might be for those who prefer a softer feel. While cushioned, the shoe leans towards a firmer support, which could be a personal preference issue. But for me, that firmness translated to better stability.

The Merrell Moab 3 utilizes a mix of materials that make it sturdy without being overly heavy. The pigskin leather offers durability, which is what you need for rugged terrains. Meanwhile, the mesh sections provide breathability, which helps prevent your feet from overheating during long hikes. This combination is pretty solid for most hiking conditions.

Another noteworthy point is the shoe’s Merrell Air Cushion in the heel. It’s designed to absorb shock and add stability. Honestly, after a few hours on rocky paths, I noticed my feet weren’t as fatigued as with other hiking shoes. It’s a practical feature that makes a difference.

The use of partially recycled fabrics is a commendable step toward sustainability. While it doesn’t directly impact performance, it’s a nice bonus for those looking to make more environmentally conscious choices.

In terms of build quality, everything feels well put together. No loose threads or poorly glued sections, which I’ve seen in some other hiking shoes. After two weeks of use, the materials have held up well. It’s a good sign that these shoes can go the distance.

Durability is where the Merrell Moab 3 shines. After putting them through a couple of weeks of hiking, they’ve shown little to no wear and tear. The pigskin leather, combined with sturdy construction, is built to last.

Even after encountering rough terrains and less-than-ideal weather conditions, the shoes maintained their integrity. The protective toe cap has done its job well, preventing any scuffs or damage from rocks and debris.

One aspect I was particularly impressed with is the sole. The Vibram TC5+ rubber, known for its toughness, still looks brand new after numerous outings. This speaks volumes about its potential longevity.

While they’re not indestructible, these shoes are far from flimsy. If you’re looking for something that can withstand regular use without falling apart, the Moab 3 is worth considering. Just keep in mind that no shoe will last forever, but these give you a good run for your money.

Performance-wise, the Moab 3 is a reliable partner for any hiking enthusiast. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole offers excellent grip, which I tested on both wet and dry surfaces. There’s a noticeable difference compared to my old hiking shoes, where slipping was more frequent.

The molded nylon arch shank is another feature that adds to the shoe’s performance. It provides additional support, particularly useful when you’re hiking uneven terrains. During one hike, I climbed a particularly steep trail, and the shoe held up well without any signs of giving way.

On the downside, these shoes might not be the best choice for extreme conditions or high-intensity trails. They perform well for regular hikes, but if you’re looking to tackle something more challenging, you might want to consider specialized gear.

Overall, for regular hiking needs, the performance of the Merrell Moab 3 is pretty solid. It gets the job done without any major hiccups and gives you the confidence to enjoy your time outdoors.