Fit is the most important thing—really need to try them on in person to know. I’ve had good luck with Salomon; they fit me well, and I own a few pairs. That said, their quality has really dropped recently, and my shoes wear out fast, less than a year. I bought two pairs of Speedcross 6 to alternate, hoping they’ll last longer. Let’s see how that goes!
@Zariah
I’ve had a similar experience with Salomon lately. Three pairs of Quest 4 all failed within a few months. The eyelet popped on a pair of Pioneers, and the footbed came loose in another. I switched to Asolo (similar fit) and am much happier.
@Zariah
I’ve heard great things about Topo too!
@Zariah
Thank you! I heard the Moab 3s last longer—definitely appealing since I don’t want to be buying new shoes every year.
Jem said:
@Zariah
Thank you! I heard the Moab 3s last longer—definitely appealing since I don’t want to be buying new shoes every year.
I tried on the Moabs in-store to check the fit and then ordered online for cheaper. Definitely try before you buy.
@Nori
It’s nice to get a deal online, but eventually, that could lead to fewer stores.
Reagan said:
@Nori
It’s nice to get a deal online, but eventually, that could lead to fewer stores.
I get it, but if there’s a discount, I’m not going to pass it up. It’s a bit of a luxury to pay full price.
@Reilly
For sure, but I usually try to buy local if it’s within 15% of the online price.
Jem said:
@Zariah
Thank you! I heard the Moab 3s last longer—definitely appealing since I don’t want to be buying new shoes every year.
I wouldn’t count on the Moabs lasting a year if you’re doing intense hikes.
Jem said:
@Zariah
Thank you! I heard the Moab 3s last longer—definitely appealing since I don’t want to be buying new shoes every year.
I’ve tried Moabs before, and they don’t last as long as I’d hoped. Sometimes, you get what you pay for.
Merrells might not be as popular, but I’ve had a great experience with them. I hardly notice I’m wearing them!
Chen said:
Merrells might not be as popular, but I’ve had a great experience with them. I hardly notice I’m wearing them!
Check out the Merrell Rogue Hiker Boot! Looks and feels amazing.
Chen said:
Merrells might not be as popular, but I’ve had a great experience with them. I hardly notice I’m wearing them!
I’ve been wearing Merrells for years. They fit me perfectly and hold up pretty well—only issue has been the tread.
Chen said:
Merrells might not be as popular, but I’ve had a great experience with them. I hardly notice I’m wearing them!
It’s like walking on clouds.
Chen said:
Merrells might not be as popular, but I’ve had a great experience with them. I hardly notice I’m wearing them!
Couldn’t agree more. Merrells are where it’s at.
Try them on in-store, ideally at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen. Bring the thickest socks you plan to wear with them!
Everyone’s feet are different. A good outdoor store can help you find a shoe that fits you best.
Fit is key! Try them on with your thickest hiking socks, and stand on the insole to check if you have 1/3 to 1/2 inch of space at the toe. They should be comfortable right out of the box!
Mixed experiences with Merrells—one pair lasted years, but my last two pairs didn’t hold up at all in wet conditions.