Merrell Moab Ventilator Shoe Review

Merrell Moab Ventilator Shoe Review

Editor:  Darren

Basic Description: Multi-function hiking and casual shoe by Merrell

Just the facts: Vibram sole, leather and breathable mesh upper.

Story:

First of all, you should know that I am rating this shoe as a casual, fair weather, all-around, walking and light hiking shoe.  If you are looking for a serious, all-weather, hunting and hiking shoe you should look at another model.
One big reason I bought he Merrell Moab Ventilator was that I wanted a casual shoe that didn’t look like a jogging or other athletic shoe but was just as light and comfortable.  The Moab Ventilator was also designed to keep my feet cool in the heat, which was a big plus.  The Coupe de Gras for selecting the Merrell Moab Ventilator was that when I tried them on in the store, along with many other brands, they were easily the most comfortable.  They just seemed to conform to my foot and as I walked there was no pinching or change in the comfort. The sole provided sufficient cushion without feeling too soft and they were light an attractive.  The other shoes I tried felt good but the Merrells felt great.
I’ve now owned the shoes for about 6 months and wore them in all kinds of conditions from high heat to cold weather, on snow, rocks, and dusty conditions and they still look great and perform like new.  Because of the mesh uppers, I have purposely avoided using them when I could get them wet as they provide no protection from this element.
The sole wear is excellent and the cushion has not broken down.  The uppers don’t show the dirt and the laces have not frayed.  Simply put, this is one of the best pair of casual hiking and walking shoes of this class that I have ever owned.  They are so comfortable and durable that I am now in the market for another pair of Merrells for all-weather bowhunting or backpacking.  My hunting Merrells will have higher top for more support and either have Gore-tex or Merrell waterproofing.

What they could do better:
If Merrell could figure out how to make a waterproof shoe as cool and comfortable as the Moab Ventilator, they would have the perfect shoe.