Our Favorite Editor-Tested Merrell Hiking Shoes for Every Type of Terrain

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Best Overall Hiking Shoes

Antora 3

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.”

Pros

• Lightweight
• Breathable mesh lining
• Rock plate
• Recycled materials
• EVA foam footbed for comfort
• Vibram TC5+ outsole for better grip
• Eight colors
• Comes in medium and wide-width
• Available in women’s sizes 5-11

Cons

• Soles not removable
• Pricey

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Mary Henn/Family Handyman

Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Hydro Moc

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.”

Pros

• Waterproof EVA foam materials
• Comfortable foam insole
• Easy to clean
• Slip-on style
• Lightweight
• Good arch support
• Vegan-friendly
• Eco-friendly
• Durable
• Affordable
• Available in women’s and men’s sizes
• Neutral and bold color options

Cons

• Rocks can get trapped in shoe’s holes
• Some suction occurs when wet
• Not available in half sizes
• Need to break in

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Best Sustainable Hiking Shoes

Moab Speed Scrap

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.”

Pros

• 100% recycled mesh upper, laces and webbing, TPU reinforcements, mesh lining
• 30% recycled rubber outsole and EVA foam midsole
• Removable PU footbed
• Rock plate for protection
• Vibram EcoStep outsole for improved grip
• Protective toe cap
• Bellows tongue keeps out debris
• Outsole lugs increase traction

Cons

• Pricey
• Not available in wide sizes
• Shoe style is one-of-a-kind, so colors will differ from photos

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Best Hiking Shoes for Wide Feet

Moab 3 X Unlikely Hikers Wide Width

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.”

Pros

• Comes in sizes 5-11
• Available in wide or medium widths
• Colorful look
• Breathable mesh upper
• Durable leather outer
• 100% recycled laces and webbing
• Removable contoured footbed
• Molded nylon arch
• Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock
• Protective rubber heel and toe cap

Cons

• Pricey

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