Merrell Gore-Tex Boots for Men - Review of the Merrell Moab Mid Gore-Tex XCR
Author: Steven Roberts
Many outdoor enthusiasts prefer trainer designs to more traditional leather walking shoes for the comfort and flexibility they offer, however for the colder months and hiking on exposed windswept hillsides, many trainer styles lack the required support and protection. Merrell however have redesigned their popular lightweight Moab off-road trainer range to provide a sturdier mid-boot version which retains the lightweight design and chunky outsole, whilst adding a protective heel collar to give greater support and protection to the ankles.
Merrell trainers are well known for their lightweight and comfortable design and offer a close fit, perfect for trail walking and low level hiking. By adding extra support and protection, it is possible to maintain the comfort of a trainer whilst tackling higher altitudes and colder, wetter weather. Featuring a Gore-Tex gasket the Merrell Moab Mid Gore-Tex XCR maintains a 100% waterproof seal to cope with standing water, streams and downpours and will keep the feet perfectly dry whilst retaining a high degree of breathability.
The comfort of the boots straight out of the box is impressive, providing that soft trainer feel, whilst the cuff feels supportive on the ankles. They offer excellent grip on the on soft wet ground, whilst giving great cushioning on hard packed trails. Most walking boots take some breaking in to get comfortable and take on the shape of the feet however the Moab with its lightweight uppers is soft on the foot with a great fit from day 1. I love the styling and the comfort of the boots, and the lightweight design is a huge plus to help keep muscle fatigue down to a minimum to walk for longer between rests. The footbed is really supportive, feels really well cushioned, and the Moab Mid boot is a great all rounder with the versatility to tackle a wide range of surfaces in all weather conditions.
Considering Merrell Gore-Tex Boots are lightweight, it is surprising how protective they feel. For those who tend to prefer more traditional leather styles they are a great lightweight alternative, ideal for approach work, trails and light to moderate hikes. Having previously purchased Merrell walking shoes, I am used to the comfort they provide, and it was nice to see that this has been carried over into the boot models. I have used them on a few trails and the grip is excellent in mud, and even with total immersion the feet remain perfectly dry, thanks to the Merrell Gore-Tex gasket.
For more extreme hikes and for sharp rocky terrain you may prefer a more robust boot, however for the majority of walkers and hikers they are a first rate mid-boot which will take pretty much whatever terrain you are likely to come across and they are one of the lightest walking boots in their class.
Generally the companies try to make improvements every year based on the feedback they get from buyers. My advice would be to search both boots and compare specs. But it looks like the 2011 Pearls, and pearls in general, are softer than the Ivys.
Do Salomon snowboard boots differ from year to year?
I recently purchased the 2011 Salomon Pearls and I’m wondering if I were to buy an older model. Say from 2010 or 2009, would there be a difference in fit? The Salomon’s were the only boot that felt right but I’m wondering if all Salomon boots fit the same?
As a side note, does anyone know the difference between the 2010 Ivy’s in comparison to the 2011 Pearls?
There is no Best answer to this question.
Everyone’s feet are shaped different, hell you admit that yours are deformed.
Ignore what everyone above has said and just go to the shop and try on as many boots as time allows.
Walk around the store in them. Take your top 2 picks and put one on each foot and see what fits better. What works for one person will not work for others.
e.g. I really like the burton ruler boots cause they are the perfect fit for me. I wanted to upgrade to a higher burton model and was willing to spend almost 400 bucks on the burton Ions, but they do not fit my feet as well as the rulers, so thats what im sticking with.
You may find that there is one boot which gives you the best fit and thats what you should go by. boots are the most important part of your gear and can make all the difference. If your feet are hurting, you will have a miserable day. So go to your shop and start trying on different pairs. Wear your snowboarding socks when you go to try em out. you can check em out in the store and then buy them online if you see a good deal, but do NOT ever buy boots without trying them on first.
What kind of snowboard boot should I get?
Okay, I’m intermediate-advance and want something easy to put on and take off, support level around 3, will handle anything from ice to powder. I do groomers, steeps, moguls, pretty much anything but the terrain park, but I will occasionally do a press on the flats here and there. I’ve been looking at these four:
DC Siloh BOA Snowboard Boots http://www.the-house.com/dc2siw06wg10zz-dc-snowboard-boots.html
Salomon Pearl Snowboard Boots http://www.the-house.com/sa2pew06bpg10zz-salomon-snowboard-boots.html
Burton Emerald Gmp http://www.the-house.com/bt2emgw08bk9zz-burton-snowboard-boots.html and
Burton Mint http://www.the-house.com/bt2miw06wr8zz-burton-boots.html
Which do you think would be best for me? I have a deformed ankle and get a lot of heel lift since my ankle’s kinda small and oddly shaped, so I need something that will keep my heel down.
You fine. They’ll pack out slightly but it’s better to have a bit of bunching then too much room in ur boots. You just want to make sure ur not gonna get cramps in ur feet
How much do salomon snowboard boots pack out?
i really dont want to return another pair but i need these to fit my foot a little better..
I had to return a pair of Ivys because the laces were broken but i couldnt exchange them for the same style..so i got a pair of F20Ws in the exact same size but these make my toes curl a little bit..does anyone know if they will pack out in the toes or if i can heat mold F20Ws? i had to buy them online because stores dont stock my small 4.5 size
Salomon boots suit people with narrow feet and slim ankles. So if you have wide feet they wont be good for you. Whenever buying boots you always have to try before you buy like youve said yourself, and comfort and fit are always the most important thing to look for when buying boots. Salomon do make really good quality boots though if they fit your feet well you cant go wrong with them, Good luck.
Opinions on Salomon boots?
I’m looking to buy new snowboard boots, and was wondering about the quality of Salomon brand boots? I don’t have any experience with this brand, but the fact that they make a lot of ski stuff makes me wonder if their snowboard gear is as good as companies who specialize in snowboarding only. I’m specifically looking at the Salomon Ivy boots – http://www.dogfunk.com/dogfunk/SAL1418/Salomon-Ivy-Snowboard-Boot-Womens.html
Any reviews or comments on Salomon boots would be greatly appreciated.
Salomon makes pretty good stuff.
Burton is the big name brand for snowboard gear, but I wore Salomon boots (I think they were Salomon Malamutes) for a few seasons and was very comfortable. The boots held up well and were the perfect stiffness for me.
I would recommend trying that exact model of boot before you buy it though. Buying online is great, but you want to make sure you have the right fit and desired stiffness. And all boots run a little different on size. Also, make sure your boots fit your bindings. I bought Vans boa boots a few years ago and they wouldn’t fit into my Ride bindings.
But there’s nothing wrong with Salomon boots. It’s a quality brand.
How is the fit of Salomon Dialogue boots?
Planning to buy some Salomon Dialogue mens snowboard boots. Just wondering how the fitment is, compared to other brands and sizing. Don’t worry, I’ll try them on before I buy them…