Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid GORE-TEX Boots

I was looking for a lightweight pair of hiking boots for my super wide feet, ideally waterproof. Most hiking boots pinch the sides of my feet pretty quickly, but these never did, and they broke in very quickly. It does feel like the arch support is a little further back than in other shoes, but it works for my feet! They generally feel waterproof, though if I step in several inches of water, some does seem to get through to my socks (but that could be what comes in through the top or around the laces of the shoe). I've haven't done any super intense hiking but I've had these on for full days in all kinds of environments: trails, beaches, walking around streams, regular day to day, and they've stayed comfortable and supportive. I'm usually a 9-9.5 wide but went for ... MoreI was looking for a lightweight pair of hiking boots for my super wide feet, ideally waterproof. Most hiking boots pinch the sides of my feet pretty quickly, but these never did, and they broke in very quickly. It does feel like the arch support is a little further back than in other shoes, but it works for my feet! They generally feel waterproof, though if I step in several inches of water, some does seem to get through to my socks (but that could be what comes in through the top or around the laces of the shoe). I've haven't done any super intense hiking but I've had these on for full days in all kinds of environments: trails, beaches, walking around streams, regular day to day, and they've stayed comfortable and supportive. I'm usually a 9-9.5 wide but went for 10w in these and I have some space in the front to spread out my toes :)

So I just got back from an extending trekking/climbing trip to Nepal. In general I would say that the boot performed well. It is definitely waterproof but perhaps therein lies the "but". We were typically moving for about 6 hours a day and at the end of each day my socks would be soaked and my toes looked like raisins. As a disclaimer, I typically sweat more than the average person so take my comments with that in mind. As we gained altitude the issues diminished but I would say that this could cause some serious trench foot for extended hikes. Great traction and protection but the waterproofing seems to come at a price. I will definitely keep these boots but will only use them as my second option when the weather turns wet. Otherwise, bring plenty of spare socks ... MoreSo I just got back from an extending trekking/climbing trip to Nepal. In general I would say that the boot performed well. It is definitely waterproof but perhaps therein lies the "but". We were typically moving for about 6 hours a day and at the end of each day my socks would be soaked and my toes looked like raisins. As a disclaimer, I typically sweat more than the average person so take my comments with that in mind. As we gained altitude the issues diminished but I would say that this could cause some serious trench foot for extended hikes. Great traction and protection but the waterproofing seems to come at a price. I will definitely keep these boots but will only use them as my second option when the weather turns wet. Otherwise, bring plenty of spare socks and change them frequently to keep feet and the boots as dry as possible.

About 10 years ago, I was at the REI store in Seattle shopping for a new pair of light hikers. I found the perfect pair; they fit my feet perfectly, had all the features I was seeking, and the price was right. Then, I overheard a woman sitting near me talking about a pair of boots she'd loved so much she wore them out. She was at REI that day to purchase a new pair of the exact same boot. I decided I had to try the Merrells she was talking about. Amazed that the fit and feel of the boots was superior than the "perfect ones" I'd already found, I bought them and since that time have purchased additional pairs. I wear them in the garden, for local walks, on the trail. I keep a pair in my car and almost always travel with a pair.