Merrell Moab 3 GTX
Pros
- Superb day-one comfort
- Brilliant surface adhesion
- Supportive like a work shoe
- Remarkably durable
- A-grade waterproofing
- Sheds mud quite well
- Protective toe box
- Incredible overall quality
Cons
- Heavy for a low-top
- Subpar breathability
- Its shoelaces unravel often
- Minimal shock absorption
Key Features
- GORE-TEX waterproof membrane for exceptional breathability and waterproof performance
- Pigskin leather and mesh upper for durability and comfort
- 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining promoting sustainability
- Bellows tongue effectively keeps out debris
- Protective toe cap shields against rocks and obstacles
- Vibram TC5+ rubber sole offers superior traction on varied terrains
Specifications
- Fabric type: 100% Synthetic
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shaft height: Ankle
- Outer material: Suede
The Merrell Moab 3 GTX is recognized as an excellent choice for winter hiking, particularly suited for those seeking comfort and durability in cold conditions.
This model upholds the comfort expected from the Moab range, providing a snug fit straight out of the box. In our lab tests, we recorded the tongue’s thickness at 14.6 mm, significantly more cushioned than the average of 10.2 mm, ensuring comfortable hikes without any rubbing or blisters, eliminating the need for break-in periods.
The Merrell Moab 3 GTX incorporates several key features to enhance winter hiking performance. Its watertight upper effectively passed our wet test, remaining impermeable even when submerged in a stream. The fully gusseted tongue aids in keeping water from entering around the instep, complemented by the reliable Gore-Tex membrane.
With sticky 4.8 mm lugs in the Vibram outsole, these shoes provide strong traction on muddy, snowy, or rocky trails, instilling confidence during hikes. However, it is important to note that the Merrell Moab 3 GTX emphasizes ground feel; therefore, individuals seeking maximum impact protection may want to consider more cushioned hiking options.
La Sportiva Spire GTX
Pros
- Feels like a backpacking boot with low collar
- Unparalleled stability and support
- Superb waterproofness with some breathabilty
- Mutes out rocks and debris like no other
- Excellent grip and braking
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Greater range of sizes allows to fine tune the fit
Cons
- Can feel tippy on rocky and hilly terrain
- Frail inner lining
- Gets even firmer in cold
Key Features
- 360-Degree Breathability: Incorporates ePE Gore-Tex® Surround™ and Nano Cell 2.0 technologies for superior ventilation.
- Lightweight Construction: Designed to be lightweight yet durable, offering ease of movement on trails.
- Cushioned Midsole: Provides excellent shock absorption for long hikes, helping reduce fatigue.
- Durable Materials: Made with high-quality rubber and mesh that withstands regular wear and tear.
- Excellent Traction: The rugged sole ensures grip on various surfaces, enhancing stability during your adventures.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh
- Inner Material: Mesh
The La Sportiva Spire GTX is an ideal backpacking shoe for winter hikes, providing warmth, protection, and stability for snowy and unpredictable conditions. Our testing, both in the lab and on the trail, confirmed its effectiveness during various outdoor adventures.
With a heel foam thickness of 39.1 mm, one of the tallest measurements we've encountered, the shoe offers significant isolation from ground impact and debris. The heel features a steep incline of 16.0 mm, which helps reduce stress on the Achilles tendon, allowing for longer treks while carrying heavy loads.
The cushion measures a firm 32.6 HA on our durometer, enhancing overall stability. Additionally, the STB control system includes tall sidewalls that cradle the feet securely, while the Vibram outsole, equipped with 4.3 mm deep lugs, ensures reliable traction on various surfaces.
Designed to withstand cold weather, the upper provides excellent protection against harsh winds, achieving a low score of 1/5 in breathability tests, which is beneficial for winter footwear. However, it’s important to note that the already firm midsole becomes even firmer in colder temperatures, making this shoe less suitable for those who prefer softer cushioning.
Altra Olympus 6 Hike Low GTX
Pros
- Excellent shock absorption
- Comfortably soft cushioning
- Ultra padded and cozy step-in feel
- Exceptionally wide fit and footshaped toebox
- Extra wide and stable platform
- Highly durable leather and outsole
- Excellent grip on smooth and wet rocks
- Solid waterproofing
Cons
- Not a true zero-drop (1.5 mm)
- Midsole gets notably firmer in cold
- Frail inner lining
Key Features
- GORE-TEX Invisible Fit: This lightweight upper guarantees waterproof, windproof, and breathable performance, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Vibram Megagrip: Known for its sticky rubber, this sole provides exceptional grip on both dry and wet surfaces, perfect for unpredictable terrain.
- FootShape Fit: Altra's signature design offers a roomy toe box, allowing your toes to move freely while maintaining ample support through the midfoot.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Inner material: Polyester
The Altra Olympus 6 Hike Low GTX is an excellent choice for winter hikers seeking a comfortable and spacious fit. This shoe prioritizes comfort, providing a plush sensation that has been notably appreciated during snowy mountain excursions. Among the winter hiking shoes we tested, its wide toebox stands out, accommodating even broader feet effectively.
This model features the Original FootShape Fit, which measures 80.5 mm in the toebox, significantly wider than the average of 72.5 mm. This design allows for ample room without sacrificing support. Additionally, the impermeable upper material ensures warmth in sub-zero temperatures, constructed from nubuck leather and the Gore-Tex Invisible Fit membrane.
In our lab tests, the shoe demonstrated excellent impact protection, offering above-average shock absorption rated at 118 SA, which enhances comfort during prolonged trekking sessions. Although the platform height is moderate, it provides sufficient cushioning for demanding hikes.
However, the shoe's stiff construction may be excessive for lighter trails. For casual walks or easy park strolls, a more flexible shoe would be advisable. Overall, the Altra Olympus 6 Hike Low GTX excels in stability and durability for serious winter hikes but may not suit all types of outdoor activities.
Merrell Moab Speed 2
Pros
- One of the lightest hiking shoes
- Plush and abundant cushioning
- Great support and stability
- Perfect grip for moderate terrain
- Excellent durability
- Breathable for summer
- Cozy step-in feel
- Two loops for easy on-off
Cons
- Frail inner lining
- Small debris gets inside
Key Features
- Responsible Collection: Incorporates recycled and repurposed materials to lessen environmental impact.
- Upper Material: Constructed with durable nylon ripstop and TPU for enhanced resilience.
- Lining: Features a breathable mesh made from recycled materials to keep your feet cool and comfortable.
- Closure: Uses a lace system crafted from recycled materials for a secure fit.
- Footbed: Made of EVA that contains 50% recycled content and treated with Cleansport NXT for anti-odor protection.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or imported, ensuring quality craftsmanship.
- Sole Material: Durable rubber that offers excellent grip and longevity.
- Outer Material: Leather exterior for durability and support.
- Inner Material: Recycled mesh lining for breathability and comfort.
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 is designed for women seeking a lightweight yet supportive hiking shoe. It excels in performance, making it a top choice in the lab for women's hiking footwear.
Weighing only 11.6 oz (329g), the Moab Speed 2 is 13.4% lighter than the average hiking shoe. Its stack height of 38.8/23.8 mm surpasses the average of 32.8/22.0 mm, contributing to its impressive design. The full-length FloatPro Foam offers significant impact protection, evidenced by a high 125 SA score.
During testing, we found the shoe provided excellent traction and stability. The midfoot features a FlexPlate that extends to the heel, enhancing controlled movements. Additionally, the firm Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole, equipped with 3.7 mm lugs, ensures reliable grip on various terrains.
A potential drawback is the absence of a fully gusseted tongue, which could allow small debris to enter. Women who prioritize this feature may wish to explore alternative options. Overall, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 combines lightness with durability, suited for diverse hiking conditions.
On Cloudhorizon Waterproof
Pros
- Effective waterproofing
- Abundant cushioning and impact protection
- Lively and responsive ride
- Amazingly light for its stack and waterproofing
- Great as a city-to-trail shoe
- Good stability for moderate terrain
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- True to size and fit
Cons
- Not for serious hiking
- Lacks durabiity for the price
Key Features
- Waterproof Construction: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- CloudTec Phase® Technology: Provides exceptional cushioning for all-day comfort.
- Lightweight Engineered Mesh Upper: Made from recycled polyester, offering flexibility and breathability.
- Helion Superfoam Midsole: Enhances responsiveness and energy return during hikes.
- Missiongrip Rubber Outsole: Ensures superior traction on various terrains.
- Sustainable Design: Approximately 32% of the shoe's materials are recycled content, including 85% recycled polyester.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Inner Material: Polyester
The On Cloudhorizon Waterproof is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a reliable winter hiking shoe, particularly for city-to-trail adventures. It features a winterproof woven textile that effectively retains warmth and provides substantial cushioning, enhancing overall comfort during treks.
This model is designed to minimize breathability, which is beneficial in colder conditions. It effectively traps body heat inside while preventing cold air from entering, as indicated by its low ventilation score of 1/5.
The midsole incorporates generous cushioning and the unique CloudTec technology, which helps absorb ground impact. We recorded a significant stack height of 39.4/29.2 mm, with rear shock absorption measured at 126 SA, ensuring leg fatigue is minimized even after extended pavement use.
The Cloudhorizon Waterproof's construction weighs just 12.0 oz (339g), making it 10.8% lighter than the average hiking shoe, which contributes to a more comfortable experience. However, its price point of $190 is notably above average, being 33.8% higher than typical hiking footwear.
This higher cost may deter budget-conscious consumers who might want to consider more affordable alternatives.
Merrell Accentor 3
Pros
- Stellar support
- Amazingly comfortable
- Performs well in the cold
- Can gobble up miles
- Versatile grip for moderate terrain
- Alleviates foot pain
- Fits like a glove
- Roomy and durable toebox
- Very easy to put on
- Budget-friendly
- Sustainably made
Cons
- Lackluster breathability
- Could be lighter
- Unruly laces
Key Features
- Waterproof synthetic, leather, and mesh upper: Keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.
- Grippy rubber sole: Offers excellent traction on various terrains.
- Breathable mesh lining: Ensures airflow to keep your feet comfortable.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Rubber
- Inner material: Breathable Mesh
The Merrell Accentor 3 is ideally suited for hikers seeking comfort and stability on a budget. Our lab results confirm its supportive yet flexible midsole, complemented by a roomy toebox that accommodates wider feet. Priced at $100 compared to the average $142 for hiking shoes, it stands out as a notable option for an affordable hiking shoe.
The nylon shank in the midsole enhances stability, providing a reliable landing platform during treks. In our flexibility tests, the Accentor 3 exceeded expectations, requiring only 14.0N to flex to **30 degrees**, making it **14.8%** more flexible than average. This feature contributes to a relaxed experience while maintaining necessary support.
We verified the generous interior of the non-tapered toebox using a gel mold, measuring **74.6 mm**, which comfortably fits those with swollen or square-shaped feet, surpassing the **72.5 mm** average. Additionally, it offers significant vertical clearance at **32.3 mm**, enhancing overall comfort.
However, the Merrell Accentor 3 may not be ideal for summer hiking due to heat retention, as indicated by its low breathability score of **1/5** in our smoke test. This could lead to discomfort and potential blisters on warmer days. Overall, while it provides commendable features for various conditions, its breathability could be improved for hot weather use.