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Merrell Moab 3 WP - Women's Review

Supportive and affordable, this tried-and-true design is well-suited to numerous foot shapes, hikers, and backcountry experiences
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Merrell Moab 3 WP - Women's Review
Credit: Myrha Colt
Price:  $140 List
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Manufacturer:   Merrell
By Myrha Colt and Trish Matheny  ⋅  May 11, 2023
66
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#9 of 19
  • Comfort - 25% 7.0
  • Support - 20% 6.0
  • Traction - 15% 7.0
  • Water Resistance - 15% 8.0
  • Weight - 15% 4.7
  • Durability - 10% 7.0
Length Sizing
Runs Small
Runs Large
Width Sizing
Runs Narrow
Runs Wide

Our Verdict

Even in the most recent iteration, the Merrell Moab 3 WP remains a true workhorse of a shoe. The roomy toe box favors those with a wider foot and is now matched with an upgraded midfoot support system to ensure the entire foot — heel to toe — is locked, loaded, and well-cushioned for longer hikes. The only caveat of all this padding is the lack of breathability and added bulk to the design, which is reflected in the shoe's heavier weight. That said, it features a stickier version of the Vibram TC5+ sole for enhanced stabilization and grip across most terrain. While the Moab 3 isn't the flashiest choice, it is a reliable option for all kinds of hiking objectives available at a reasonable price.
REASONS TO BUY
Ample traction
Highly cushioned
Stable
Waterproof
Affordable
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulky design
No additional runner’s loop eyelet
Durability concerns
Don't need waterproofing? The Moab 3 also comes in a less expensive version without the water-resistant liner.

Editor's Note: We updated this review on May 11, 2023, to add new findings after retesting.

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Bottom Line An affordable shoe that offers a consistent performance across all metrics from comfort to waterproof performanceA comfortable, high-performing hiking shoe that's versatile enough to tackle everything from well-maintained trails to technical and steep terrainHigh performance without the added weight, this shoe is built for pushing the pace in mountainous terrainThis affordable hiking shoe offers great support for those with high archesThe lightweight design and sneaker-like feel provide ample comfort under foot
Rating Categories Merrell Moab 3 WP -... Salomon X Ultra 4 G... The North Face VECT... Merrell Moab 3 - Wo... Columbia Crestwood...
Comfort (25%)
7.0
7.0
8.0
8.0
7.5
Support (20%)
6.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.5
Traction (15%)
7.0
8.0
6.0
7.0
7.0
Water Resistance (15%)
8.0
9.0
8.0
4.0
3.0
Weight (15%)
4.7
6.5
8.0
5.3
6.8
Durability (10%)
7.0
8.0
7.0
7.5
6.5
Specs Merrell Moab 3 WP -... Salomon X Ultra 4 G... The North Face VECT... Merrell Moab 3 - Wo... Columbia Crestwood...
Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5) 1.78 lbs 1.54 lbs 1.34 lbs 1.70 lbs 1.50 lbs
Upper Leather, mesh Synthetic textile Performance mesh Pigskin leather, mesh Leather, mesh, and webbing
Lining Recycled mesh/waterproof, breathable membrane Gore-Tex Futurelight waterproof membrane Recycled mesh Omni-Tech
Midsole EVA EVA Single-density EVA Super rebound compound Techlite
Outsole Vibram TC5+ rubber Rubber Contagrip Surface Control rubber Vibram TC5 Omni-Grip
Width Options Regular Regular Regular Regular, wide Regular, wide

Our Analysis and Test Results

A tried and true low-rise hiker that delivers adequate results across all metrics, Merrell's Moab 3 Waterproof is a great choice for those seeking a more traditional and rigid design. Though one of the heaviest shoes we tested, it offers reliable waterproof protection (as long as the mesh upper isn't compromised) and also features great Vibram traction within a well-padded and sturdy design. This shoe is perfect for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

Performance Comparison


merrell moab 3 wp for women - the moab is well-suited to fit various types of foot shapes, is...
The Moab is well-suited to fit various types of foot shapes, is affordably priced, and ready to tackle most backcountry terrain.
Credit: Myrha Colt

Comfort


The Moab 3 features a roomy toe box that favors a wide foot and offers plenty of space for toes to splay out naturally, removing the potential for pinching or pressure points. The good news for narrower-footed folks (and everyone else in between) is that the standard shoe is not so wide your foot will be swimming in it. And a combination of easily adjustable laces plus a plethora of padding from base to tongue and heel ensures both foot and ankle are locked into place. Meanwhile, the footbed narrows into a well-structured, air-cushioned heel cup at the backend to support a relaxed, comfortable gait. For those with especially wide feet, the Moab also comes in a wide version.

The watertight, leather upper on the Moab 3 remains both durable and somewhat flexible, ensuring solid support and protection that will mold to your foot over time. Though the leather and mesh upper combined with significant padding add protection and structure for the feet, we also experienced some discomfort due to the lack of breathability. Recent updates to the Moab 3 include a more supportive factory insole and a softer, well-cushioned EVA midsole, but we still found the design to be bulky, stiff, and less responsive when compared to other options in this review that have more flexion in the forefoot for increased comfort on the trail.

The Moab 3 has improved cushioning, stabilizing features, and tread...
The Moab 3 has improved cushioning, stabilizing features, and tread. It's got everything you need to feel confident tackling any type of trail obstacle.
Although some testers felt they needed a few starter hikes to break...
Although some testers felt they needed a few starter hikes to break in the leather upper, others found the Moab 3 to be comfortable straight away, and easily adjustable using the laces.

Support


A supportive shoe integrates several features into its design: arch support, lateral support, structural supports for the ankle and heel, and a lacing system that allows you to customize the fit to your individual foot. The Moab 3 features a sturdy structure from base to ankle collar, including a molded nylon shank that substantially supports the arch and keeps the shoe from feeling too squishy underfoot.

Like its predecessor, the Moab 3 WP is also among the most torsionally rigid shoes in our test collection (i.e., limited flexing when twisted like a sponge). This translates to excellent lateral stability to protect your feet and ankles when moving over uneven terrain, though it reduces the overall responsiveness that is often achieved with a more flexible upper. The front of the shoe offers a reasonable degree of flexibility that we found to increase throughout our break-in period. We also noted that the high midfoot rigidity provided a stable base of support that makes this shoe a consideration for increased mileage on the trails. Just keep in mind that the rigid and somewhat bulky base may limit range of motion and cause discomfort and fatigue in the feet due to heel strikes.

It's very hard to twist the Moab 3, demonstrating significant...
It's very hard to twist the Moab 3, demonstrating significant torsional rigidity and a strong foundation for tackling many miles.
Although the sole is quite stiff, the Moab 3 still manages to retain...
Although the sole is quite stiff, the Moab 3 still manages to retain decent flex under the toe to allow for responsive movement.

Traction


We evaluate each shoe based on its performance heading up (and down) steep loose trails, assessing how well it sticks when tackling slick, sometimes wet, rocky terrain. The thick, deeply patterned Vibram TC5+ outsole on the Moab 3 provides a highly excellent grip and average shock absorption. A unique tread pattern combining circles, swooshes, and hatch patterns was a surprisingly powerful match for loose scree and dry steep dirt trails.

Though the Moab 3 has always received high marks in this category, we found the outsole to be stiffer than other shoes tested for this review. While it is softer than previous iterations of the Moab, the Vibram outsole still remains rigid and stiff, preventing responsiveness in technical terrain and causing the heel to absorb most of the shock. The lack of shock absorption throughout the sole of the shoe only intensified with the weight of a heavy pack. We also found the sole to lose a bit of performance when cold (a commonality between various types of rubber that lose some traction during colder temperatures). Those complaints aside, the Moab 3 provides solid traction when moving over loose sand, decomposing granite, and even slippery and polished slabs on popular hiking trails — we just wish there was a little more flexibility built into the design.

Deep lugs in an unusual pattern - circles, swooshes, and hatched...
Deep lugs in an unusual pattern - circles, swooshes, and hatched patterns crisscrossed with thinner lines - combined with sticky TC5+ Vibram rubber will turn anyone into a confident hiker, no matter what path lies ahead.
The Moab 3 had no problem gripping granite rock faces during testing.
The Moab 3 had no problem gripping granite rock faces during testing.

Water Resistance


In addition to any stream or puddle crossings we encountered on the trail, each shoe was subjected to a 5-minute bucket test (submerged in 3 inches of water) to evaluate for water resistance and assess any weak points. The Moab 3 passed with flying colors. Just like other waterproof shoes in the test group, it appears the only weak point on the Moab is at the ankle opening, 3.5 inches above the sole of the shoe. If your plans involve a great deal of winter hiking or water crossings, a taller boot may be your best bet. Otherwise, this is an excellent option.

You can also pick up this same model without that waterproof membrane if you live in a hot climate. Or if you want to upgrade your waterproofing to slightly less breathable but longer-lasting Gore-tex, this option exists as well.

Swollen creeks during the spring are the perfect testing ground for waterproof protection; this video displays the water beading off of the water resistant mesh upper.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Weight


The Moab 3 weighs 1.78 pounds per pair for a US women's size 8.5, making these shoes some of the absolute heaviest that we tested. That said, after a little break in time, those few extra ounces were less noticeable, particularly given all the extra support features built into the shoe.

Unless fast and light is your jam, and you are specifically trying to shave weight, or steep technical terrain requiring extreme flexibility underfoot is on your calendar, we think the nominal increase in weight is a non-issue.

merrell moab 3 wp for women - the moab 3 wp is one of the heaviest trails shoes that we tested.
The Moab 3 WP is one of the heaviest trails shoes that we tested.
Credit: Myrha Colt

Durability


Though this design features a double-stitched leather and water-resistant upper, rigid outsoles, along with abrasion-resistant heel and toe caps, we have some concerns regarding the overall longevity potential of this shoe. We wish the toe cap continued further around the front to protect the mesh near the big and pinky toe from snagging on sharp rocks while navigating technical and rocky terrain.

Furthermore, the lacing system is only reinforced with mesh, except for the final eyelet, which we can imagine could wear out over the life of the shoe. We also noticed that the thick micro-fleece ankle liner has the propensity to catch on passing vegetation and pills over time (less of a concern if you're not moving through sharp brush). Additionally, we wonder if the waterproof membrane will have the same longevity as a Gore-Tex liner. We saw no failings in practice, but this is something we'd watch out for over time (and will keep an eye on to report back if we find anything of concern.) Of course, a Gore-Tex model is also available at a slightly higher cost.

Though we didn't experience any durability issues during our testing period, we can't help but question the longevity of the lacing system that is only reinforced with mesh.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Should You Buy the Merrell Moab 3 WP?


Although it is a bit bulkier than many athletically inspired hiking shoes, the Moab 3 WP offers reliable performance in terms of comfort, support, and waterproof protection at an affordable price. Though the additional features increase the overall weight of the design, this remains a tried and true option for everything from day hikes to overnight trips in the backcountry.

merrell moab 3 wp for women - the moab 3 offers comfort, support, and waterproof protection for an...
The Moab 3 offers comfort, support, and waterproof protection for an affordable price.
Credit: Myrha Colt

What Other Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?


Although not many other shoes offer the performance of the Moab 3 WP for the same affordable price, we do feel like there are better hiking shoe options if you're willing to take on more of an investment. The Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex offers a far superior, lighter weight, and versatile design for a slightly higher price tag. If you're looking for a shoe that can do it all, check out the La Sportiva Spire GTX, which is a great option for those seeking high quality and performance for everything from day hikes to extended backpacking trips. If you're after a lighter-weight design that maximizes comfort, check out the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX. And finally, if you have a wide foot and are looking for a similar design with improved support and durability, check out the Keen Targhee III Low.

merrell moab 3 wp for women - these hiking shoes are perfect for those looking to explore the...
These hiking shoes are perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors without breaking the bank.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Myrha Colt and Trish Matheny