This Best-selling Trekking Boot Now Comes in a Lightweight, Packable Trail Runner That Doubles for Hikes (2024)

As a lifelong hiker, I’ve worn my way through many pairs of hiking shoes and learned what works for me in terms of ankle support, traction, and overall comfort along the way. My Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots are a tried-and-true pair that I’ve relied on for a number of arduous hikes, including Iceland’s tricky terrain and five days of thru hiking on Sweden’s Kungsleden Trail. So when Merrell recently launched its new Moab Speed 2 Hiking Shoe — a modernized, lightweight trail runner that incorporates many features of the Moab 3 — I was intrigued to try them out.

Compared to the best-selling Moab 3 Hiking Boots, the Moab Speed 2 trail runners offer a sleeker, more breathable design that’s just as ready for adventure. They’re available in men’s (7 to 15) and women’s (5 to 11) sizes, including non-waterproof, GORE-TEX, and Mid GORE-TEX styles. While they’re intended for hitting the trails, the lower profile of the first two styles especially makes them well-suited for casual walks and urban exploration, too. Upgrading to the GORE-TEX and Mid GORE-TEX styles may be advantageous for hikers in wetter climates or seeking stronger ankle support.

Merrell Men’s Moab Speed 2 Hiking Shoe

On first wear, the hiking shoe’s traction stood out to me. Merrell’s proprietary Vibram outsole includes 4mm lugs that deliver ample grip on rocky and slippery terrain. I also was impressed that they didn’t get caked with mud on some of my spring hikes. The lightweight design and flexibility are also noteworthy. The Moab Speed 2 is equipped with Merrell’s Lightweight FlexPlate technology, which offers flexibility in the forefoot while keeping lateral stability in check. One shopper on Merrell’s website noted that they are the perfect fit and very lightweight. “Almost don’t know you’re wearing them. Did a 5km walk yesterday and [my] feet feel great.”

The Moab Speed 2 comes in both medium and wide width options. The toe box is on the narrower side, so consider choosing the wider version for more wiggle room in the front of the shoe. While some shoppers note having to go up a half size, I was able to fit my insoles into a pair of size 14s (my usual size) no problem. Each version has multiple colorways to choose from. I opted for the Moab Speed 2 GORE-TEX in Rye for its ‘90s-esque color scheme and aesthetic.

The shoes also prioritize sustainability in their design. The laces, webbing, mesh lining, mesh footbed cover are made with 100-percent recycled materials, while the EVA foam footbed incorporates 50-percent recycled content.

Merrell Women’s Moab Speed 2 Hiking Shoe

This hiking shoe includes a 30-percent increase in foam underfoot for lasting comfort on the trails. Merrell’s FloatPro Foam midsole delivers ample padding without tacking on too much weight (a pair of men’s Moab Speed 2s clocks in at just over 1.5 pounds). As one shopper put it: “They were the most comfortable sneakers I’ve worn,” adding that they walked away from three days of hiking without any blisters. “You can walk for miles in these and not feel a thing,” raved another hiker.

The versatile use between hiking and daily walks is another popular selling point for shoppers. “I walk 2 to 3 miles every day, and these are great for either pavement or light hiking,” said one hiker. “We walk one hour a day over hill and dale, regardless of weather, and we couldn't ask more of our footwear” wrote another.

The Merrell Moab Speed 2 Hiking Shoes are best for moderate hikes and daily use. They harness the traction and stability of the popular Moab 3 Hiking boots in a lightweight, trail-running design.

If you’re in the market for comfortable hiking or trail running shoes, check out more popular options below.

Shop More Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Saucony Men’s Peregrine 14 Hiking Shoes

Hoka Women’s Anacapa Breeze Low Hiking Shoes

Salomon Men’s X Ultra 4 Hiking Shoes

Danner Women’s Trail 2650 Hiking Shoes

Xero Shoes Men’s Scrambler Mid II Hiking Shoes

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