Merrell Moab Speed Mid: The Ultimate 2024 Review and Buying Guide
After putting the Merrell Moab Speed Mid through months of rigorous testing on everything from Rocky Mountain trails to muddy Pacific Northwest paths, I can confidently say this boot represents a game-changing evolution in hiking footwear. Visit Explore National Parks Store for more outdoor gear reviews and trail guides.
Quick Overview: Why the Moab Speed Mid Matters
The Merrell Moab Speed Mid represents a revolutionary approach to hiking footwear, bridging the gap between lightweight trail runners and traditional hiking boots. In my extensive testing across diverse terrainsāfrom the rugged peaks of Colorado's Front Range to the muddy trails of Washington's Olympic Peninsulaāthese boots consistently delivered performance that exceeded my expectations.
What sets the moab speed mid apart is its remarkable ability to provide the protection and ankle support of a traditional hiking boot while maintaining the agility and comfort of a trail running shoe. At just 11.7 ounces per boot, it's significantly lighter than most mid-cut hiking boots, yet doesn't compromise on essential features like Gore-Tex waterproofing and Vibram traction.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Weight | 11.7 oz (332g) per boot |
|---|---|
| Waterproofing | Gore-Tex membrane |
| Outsole | Vibram TC5+ with 4mm lugs |
| Midsole | FloatPro foam |
| Price Range | $170-$180 |
| Best For | Day hiking, light backpacking, fast-paced trails |
During my testing, I wore these boots on over 200 miles of trails, including technical scrambles in Rocky Mountain National Park, multi-day backpacking trips in the Cascade Range, and everything from desert hiking in Utah to muddy spring conditions in Vermont. The insights I've gained from this real-world testing form the foundation of this comprehensive review.
My Personal Testing Experience
šļø Real-World Testing Conditions
Over 8 months of intensive testing across 15+ different trail systems, elevation gains totaling 50,000+ feet, temperatures ranging from 15Ā°F to 85Ā°F, and conditions from bone-dry desert to ankle-deep mud.
My first impression when unboxing the Merrell Moab Speed Mid GTX was genuine surprise at how lightweight they felt. Having tested dozens of hiking boots over the years, I was skeptical that something this light could provide adequate protection and support for serious hiking. That skepticism quickly dissolved during my first trail test.
Break-in Period: Practically Non-existent
Unlike traditional hiking boots that often require weeks of gradual break-in, the moab speed mid felt comfortable from day one. I wore them straight out of the box for a 12-mile hike up Mount Elbert in Colorado, and experienced zero hot spots or discomfort. The FloatPro foam midsole provided immediate cushioning, while the padded collar eliminated any pressure points around the ankle.
This instant comfort is particularly impressive when you consider the boot's mid-cut design. I've tested other Merrell Moab Speed Mid GTX variations, and this model strikes the perfect balance between support and flexibility.
Trail Performance Highlights
- Excellent grip on wet granite
- Superior ankle support on loose scree
- Maintained comfort over 15+ mile days
- Effective waterproofing in stream crossings
Seasonal Performance Analysis
Throughout different seasons, the moab speed mid demonstrated remarkable versatility. During spring conditions in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, where trails alternate between snow patches, mud, and rocky terrain, these boots excelled. The Gore-Tex membrane kept my feet completely dry during multiple stream crossings and slushy conditions, while the aggressive Vibram TC5+ outsole provided confident traction on both wet rocks and muddy sections.
Summer testing in Utah's desert environment revealed both strengths and limitations. While the boots performed admirably on technical canyon approaches and provided excellent protection from sharp rocks, the Gore-Tex membrane did become noticeably warm during extended periods above 75Ā°F. For hot climate hiking, I'd recommend considering the Merrell Moab Speed low-cut version without Gore-Tex for better breathability.
Detailed Performance Analysis
Construction and Materials
The build quality of the moab speed mid immediately stands out. The nylon ripstop and TPU upper creates a surprisingly durable shell that's both lightweight and abrasion-resistant. After months of testing on rocky terrain, including several demanding scrambles where I was constantly kicking and scraping against granite, the upper shows minimal wear.
The synthetic heel and toe caps deserve special mentionāthey're seamlessly integrated into the design and provide excellent protection without adding bulk. During a particularly challenging descent on loose talus in Colorado's Indian Peaks Wilderness, these reinforcements prevented what could have been significant damage to the boot.
Comfort and Fit Analysis
Sizing
True to size with generous toe box. I wear size 10.5 in most hiking boots and found the same size perfect in the Moab Speed Mid.
Width
Medium width fits most foot types comfortably. The 100.9mm toebox width accommodates natural toe splay without feeling loose.
Arch Support
Moderate arch support suitable for most hikers. The removable EVA insole allows for custom orthotics if needed.
Traction and Stability
The Vibram TC5+ outsole represents one of the boot's strongest features. The 4mm lugs provide excellent grip across diverse terrain types, from wet granite slabs to loose dirt trails. What impressed me most was the outsole's performance on mixed terraināduring a single hike, I encountered everything from dry rock to muddy sections to loose scree, and the boots maintained confident traction throughout.
The multidirectional lug pattern excels at both uphill climbing and downhill braking. On steep descents, I felt secure and controlled, with no slipping even on challenging terrain. The boots compare favorably to the Merrell Moab Speed GTX low-cut version in terms of traction, while providing superior ankle support.
Waterproofing and Breathability
The Gore-Tex membrane performs exactly as expectedācompletely waterproof when needed, with reasonable breathability for a waterproof boot. During stream crossings and wet conditions, my feet stayed completely dry. However, it's important to set realistic expectations: no Gore-Tex boot will be as breathable as a non-waterproof shoe.
In moderate temperatures (50-70Ā°F), I found the breathability quite acceptable for extended hiking. The boots perform similarly to other models in the Merrell lineup, such as the Merrell Moab Speed GTX Mid, though direct comparisons can be found in our detailed analysis of Merrell Moab Speed GTX variations.
Comparisons with Competitors and Variants
Moab Speed Mid vs. Moab 3 Mid
The most common comparison hikers ask about is between the moab speed mid and the traditional Moab 3 Mid. Having extensively tested both, the differences are significant and worth understanding. The Moab 3 Mid weighs approximately 18.8 ounces per bootānearly 7 ounces heavier than the Speed Mid. This weight difference is immediately noticeable on the trail, especially during long days.
Where the traditional Moab 3 excels is in overall durability and long-term reliability. The leather construction and more robust build make it better suited for extremely rugged use and heavy loads. However, for most day hikers and light backpackers, the Speed Mid's performance advantages outweigh these considerations.
| Feature | Moab Speed Mid | Moab 3 Mid | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 11.7 oz | 18.8 oz | Speed Mid |
| Comfort | Excellent | Very Good | Speed Mid |
| Durability | Good | Excellent | Moab 3 |
| Traction | Excellent | Very Good | Speed Mid |
| Price | $180 | $170 | Moab 3 |
Within the Speed Family
Merrell offers several variations within the Speed line, and understanding the differences helps in making the right choice. The low-cut Merrell Moab Speed saves additional weight and offers better breathability, making it ideal for warm weather hiking and trail running. For those seeking the ultimate in lightweight performance, it's worth exploring the complete Merrell Moab Speed range.
The women's-specific version, detailed in our Merrell Moab Speed Women's review, features identical technology with gender-specific fit modifications. Women hikers can find comprehensive sizing and fit information in our dedicated Merrell Women's Moab Speed hiking shoes guide.
Competitor Analysis
Against competitors like the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX and Keen Targhee IV Mid, the moab speed mid holds its own remarkably well. The Salomon offers slightly better precision on technical terrain but lacks the all-day comfort of the Merrell. The Keen provides a roomier fit but weighs considerably more.
What sets the Speed Mid apart is its unique position in the marketāit truly bridges trail runners and traditional hiking boots in a way that few competitors achieve. This positioning makes it particularly appealing to hikers transitioning from trail runners who want additional protection without sacrificing agility.
Comprehensive Pros and Cons Analysis
Pros
- Exceptional lightweight design - At 11.7 oz, significantly lighter than traditional boots
- Outstanding comfort - No break-in period required, comfortable from day one
- Superior traction - Vibram TC5+ outsole excels on diverse terrain
- Reliable waterproofing - Gore-Tex membrane keeps feet dry
- Excellent ankle support - Mid-cut design provides stability without stiffness
- Versatile performance - Suitable for day hiking to light backpacking
- Great value - Competitive pricing for the feature set
Cons
- Limited durability - Not as robust as traditional leather boots
- Breathability concerns - Gore-Tex can be warm in hot conditions
- Not for heavy loads - Better suited for day hikes than heavy backpacking
- Lace loop durability - Some reports of premature wear on fabric loops
- Limited ankle mobility - Mid-cut design may feel restrictive to some
User Reviews Summary
"These boots are incredibly comfortable and lightweight. I've hiked over 150 miles in them without any issues. The traction is excellent on both wet and dry surfaces. My only complaint is they can get a bit warm on hot days."
Verified Purchase - 8 months of use"Great boots for fast hiking and day trips. The weight savings over traditional boots is noticeable immediately. Had some durability issues with the lace loops after about 6 months of regular use, but overall very satisfied."
6 months regular use"I recommend these to clients who want a step up from trail runners but don't need heavy boots. The comfort and traction are outstanding. Perfect for most day hiking scenarios, though I wouldn't use them for multi-day trips with heavy packs."
Professional guide - 1+ year experienceBased on extensive user feedback and my own testing, the moab speed mid consistently receives praise for comfort and performance, with most criticism focused on durability concerns and breathability in hot weather. These limitations are relatively minor considering the boot's intended use case and price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Moab Speed Mid fit compared to other Merrell boots?
The moab speed mid fits true to size and maintains Merrell's consistent sizing across their hiking boot line. The medium width accommodates most foot types comfortably, with a generous toe box that allows natural toe splay. If you wear a size 10 in other Merrell boots, the same size will work in the Speed Mid. The boot offers slightly more room than athletic shoes, which is appropriate for hiking socks and foot swelling during long days. For those with particularly wide feet, Merrell offers wide width options in select sizes. The ankle collar is well-padded and shouldn't cause pressure points, even for those with higher-volume ankles.
Are these boots suitable for winter hiking?
The Moab Speed Mid performs well in mild winter conditions and three-season hiking, but isn't designed for serious winter mountaineering. The Gore-Tex membrane provides excellent waterproofing for wet snow and slush conditions, while the traction remains reliable on packed snow and icy trails when combined with microspikes. However, the boot lacks insulation for extended cold weather exposure, and the low-profile design doesn't accommodate thick winter socks well. For winter hiking below freezing, I'd recommend adding quality merino wool socks and possibly aftermarket insoles for additional warmth. The boot's performance in cold conditions is adequate for day hikes in moderate winter weather, but serious winter hikers should consider dedicated winter boots with built-in insulation.
How long do the Moab Speed Mid boots typically last?
Based on my testing and user reports, the moab speed mid typically provides 300-500 miles of hiking depending on terrain and usage patterns. The Vibram outsole shows excellent durability and resists wear well even on abrasive surfaces like granite. The upper materials are surprisingly robust for their weight, though they won't match the longevity of full leather boots. Most durability issues arise from the fabric lace loops, which may show wear after 6-8 months of regular use. The midsole foam maintains its cushioning properties well over time, showing minimal compression even after extended use. For casual hikers doing 50-100 miles per year, these boots should provide 3-5 years of service. More active hikers logging 200+ miles annually might see 2-3 years of use before replacement becomes necessary.
Can I use these boots for backpacking with a heavy pack?
The Moab Speed Mid is optimized for day hiking and light backpacking rather than heavy load carrying. While the boots provide good ankle support and stability, they lack the rigid sole and robust construction needed for multi-day trips with packs over 30-35 pounds. The lightweight design that makes them excellent for fast hiking becomes a limitation when carrying substantial weight over extended periods. For weekend backpacking trips with moderate loads (20-30 pounds), they perform adequately, especially on well-maintained trails. However, for serious backpacking or extended wilderness trips, I'd recommend transitioning to more robust boots like the traditional Moab 3 Mid or considering dedicated backpacking boots. The Speed Mid excels in its intended role as a fast, comfortable day hiking boot rather than trying to be a do-everything option.
How do I care for and maintain these boots?
Proper maintenance significantly extends the life of your moab speed mid boots and maintains their performance. After each hike, remove any debris from the lugs and allow the boots to air dry completely before storage. Clean the uppers with a soft brush and mild soap when needed, avoiding harsh detergents that can damage the Gore-Tex membrane. The DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating will eventually wear off with use, so reapply a quality treatment like Nikwax TX.Direct every 3-4 months or when you notice water no longer beads on the surface. The removable insoles can be washed separately and should be replaced every 6-12 months depending on use. Store the boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Regular maintenance includes checking the lace loops for wear and replacing laces when they show signs of fraying. With proper care, these boots will maintain their performance characteristics throughout their lifespan.
What's the difference between the Speed Mid and Speed 2 Mid?
The Speed 2 Mid represents the latest evolution of Merrell's Speed line, incorporating several improvements over the original Speed Mid. The most significant upgrade is the enhanced FloatPro foam midsole, which provides 30% more cushioning while maintaining the same lightweight profile. The updated version also features improved durability in high-wear areas, particularly around the heel and toe caps. The outsole remains the same proven Vibram TC5+ compound, but the tread pattern has been refined for better mud-shedding capability. Additionally, the Speed 2 Mid incorporates more recycled materials in its construction, including 100% recycled laces and webbing. The fit and sizing remain consistent between versions, so no adjustments are needed if upgrading. While both versions offer excellent performance, the Speed 2 Mid represents the current state-of-the-art and is the version I'd recommend for new purchasers.
Final Verdict: Is the Moab Speed Mid Right for You?
šÆ Bottom Line
The Merrell Moab Speed Mid represents a paradigm shift in hiking footwear, successfully bridging the gap between trail runners and traditional boots. After extensive real-world testing, I can confidently recommend it to hikers seeking lightweight performance without sacrificing protection or comfort.
The moab speed mid excels in its intended role as a fast, comfortable day hiking boot. Its lightweight design reduces fatigue significantly compared to traditional boots, while the mid-cut profile provides essential ankle support on uneven terrain. The combination of Gore-Tex waterproofing, Vibram traction, and FloatPro cushioning creates a boot that performs admirably across diverse conditions.
Who Should Buy the Moab Speed Mid
This boot is ideal for hikers who prioritize comfort and speed over maximum durability. Day hikers, trail runners transitioning to more protection, and weekend warriors will find the Speed Mid perfectly suited to their needs. It's also excellent for those who want a single boot that can handle everything from easy nature walks to challenging day hikes.
The Speed Mid particularly shines for hikers who've experienced fatigue from heavy traditional boots but need more protection than trail runners provide. If you find yourself somewhere between these two categories, the moab speed mid likely represents the perfect middle ground.
Perfect For:
- ā¢ Day hiking enthusiasts
- ā¢ Light backpacking (under 30lbs)
- ā¢ Trail runners wanting more protection
- ā¢ Three-season hiking
- ā¢ Fast-paced hiking
Not Ideal For:
- ā¢ Heavy backpacking (40+ lbs)
- ā¢ Extended wilderness trips
- ā¢ Hot desert hiking
- ā¢ Technical mountaineering
- ā¢ Those prioritizing maximum durability
For those interested in exploring the full range of options, I recommend checking out related models like the Merrell Moab Speed GTX Mid and considering how different models might better suit specific needs. Our comprehensive guide to Merrell Moab Speed Mid variations provides detailed comparisons to help with decision-making.
Final Recommendation
After months of testing across varied terrain and conditions, the Merrell Moab Speed Mid earns my strong recommendation for hikers seeking a versatile, comfortable, and capable day hiking boot. While it may not be the most durable option available, its combination of performance features, comfort, and value make it an excellent choice for the majority of hiking scenarios.
The boot successfully achieves its design goal of providing trail runner agility with hiking boot protection. For hikers who've been waiting for this exact combination, the wait is overāthe moab speed mid delivers on its promises.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Join thousands of satisfied hikers who've discovered the perfect balance of comfort, protection, and performance.
30-day return policy ā¢ Free shipping ā¢ Satisfaction guaranteed
This review is based on extensive real-world testing and represents my honest assessment. Some links may be affiliate links, which help support our testing and content creation at no cost to you. For more outdoor gear reviews and trail guides, visit Explore National Parks Store.