Merrell Moab 2 Mid Gore-Tex Review: Complete Guide to the Ultimate Hiking Boot

Overview & First Impressions

The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Gore-Tex represents the evolution of one of the most successful hiking boot lines in outdoor retail history. When I first unboxed these boots, I was immediately impressed by their substantial yet not overly bulky construction. The synthetic leather and mesh upper feels robust without being stiff, and the Gore-Tex bootie construction promises reliable waterproof protection.

Quick Stats

• Weight: 2 lbs 4 oz (pair)
• Drop: 12mm heel-to-toe
• Material: Synthetic leather/mesh upper
• Waterproofing: Gore-Tex membrane
• Price Range: $135-180

What sets the Moab 2 Mid Gore-Tex apart from its low-cut sibling is the extended ankle support, which I found invaluable during my backcountry adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park. The additional material doesn't add significant weight but provides crucial protection against ankle rolls on uneven terrain. The boot strikes an excellent balance between traditional hiking boot support and modern lightweight design philosophy.

During my initial break-in period, which lasted approximately 15-20 miles of mixed terrain hiking, I experienced minimal hot spots or pressure points. This is remarkable for a boot in this price category, where many competitors require extensive breaking-in periods. The internal volume accommodates various foot shapes well, though wide-footed hikers should definitely consider the available wide-width options.

Technical Specifications & Design

Upper Construction

The upper combines durable synthetic leather with breathable mesh panels strategically placed to maximize airflow while maintaining protection. The synthetic materials have proven surprisingly durable in my testing, showing minimal wear even after extensive use on abrasive granite surfaces in Yosemite. The mesh inserts provide crucial ventilation, though they're positioned to avoid high-wear areas.

Merrell's integration of the Gore-Tex membrane creates a bootie construction that's both waterproof and breathable. Unlike some competitors that use a simple Gore-Tex lining, this design creates a sealed environment around your foot while still allowing moisture vapor to escape. During humid summer hikes in the Appalachians, I noticed significantly less internal moisture buildup compared to non-breathable waterproof boots.

Sole System & Traction

The Vibram TC5+ outsole represents the heart of this boot's traction system. Through extensive testing on various surfaces – from wet granite slabs to muddy forest floors – I found the lug pattern provides reliable grip in most conditions. The 5mm lug depth strikes a good balance between traction and durability, though it's not as aggressive as some dedicated scrambling or mountaineering boots.

Midsole & Cushioning

The EVA midsole provides adequate cushioning for most hiking applications, though it's not as plush as some modern trail running inspired designs. During my 18-mile day hike along the Rim Trail in Grand Canyon, I experienced some foot fatigue toward the end, suggesting that hikers planning extremely long days might want to consider aftermarket insoles for enhanced comfort.

The removable EVA footbed works well for most foot types, but I found that replacing it with a higher-quality aftermarket insole significantly improved comfort during extended wear. The internal volume accommodates various insole thicknesses without creating pressure points, making customization straightforward for users with specific comfort requirements.

Trail Performance Analysis

Traction & Stability

The Vibram TC5+ outsole proved its worth across diverse terrain types. On the slickrock trails of Arches National Park, the rubber compound provided confident grip on dry sandstone. During muddy conditions in the Cascade Range, the lug pattern effectively shed debris and maintained traction on slippery surfaces.

Where I noticed some limitations was on wet granite and polished rock surfaces common in the Sierra Nevada. While not dangerous, the traction wasn't quite as confidence-inspiring as more aggressive lug patterns found on technical hiking boots. For general trail hiking, however, the traction performance exceeded my expectations.

Long-Distance Comfort

Over my 500+ miles of testing, comfort remained consistently good, though not exceptional. The boot excels in the crucial first 10-15 miles of any hike, providing solid support and cushioning. Beyond this distance, I began to notice some pressure points, particularly around the forefoot during long descents. This suggests the boot is optimized for day hiking and shorter backpacking trips rather than extended thru-hiking applications.

My Experience & User Reviews

User Review Summary

Seasonal Performance Notes

Through testing across different seasons, I've identified some key performance characteristics. Spring hiking in the Pacific Northwest, where stream crossings and muddy conditions are common, represents ideal conditions for the Moab 2 Mid Gore-Tex. The waterproofing excels, and the moderate insulation level prevents overheating during active hiking.

Summer use in desert environments like Death Valley revealed the limitations of Gore-Tex in extreme heat. While the boots remained functionally sound, internal heat buildup became noticeable during long exposure to direct sunlight and high ambient temperatures. For hot climate hiking, consider the breathable versions from the Moab 2 Mid series.

Pros and Cons

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Who Should Consider These Boots