Merrell Moab FST Gore-Tex
weight; outsole lug; close comfortable fit
upper is quite soft and less durable; sole stiffness
Very lightweight, plus a Vibram sole with deep, well-spaced lugs to ensure it has a reasonable grip, and it’s this combination of features that sets it apart from others. The upper is made from mesh with overlays of synthetic material, and there’s a little extra support in the heel and toe. Gore-Tex provides the waterproof protection. Stiffness in the sole and upper of other shoes is better for rougher ground. 4/5
Top marks here! The men’s sizes are 6½-14, while women’s sizes are 5-11. With a lovely, snug fit, the soft upper moulds beautifully around the feet as you adjust the laces, and the tongue sits neatly around the foot. Another great feature is that the shoe flexes nicely with the fit as you walk, holding your heel firmly but comfortably in place. 5/5
The low weight combined with the soft, flexible upper really helps with comfort, as the latter mould to and moves with the foot so easily. While the sole has more stiffening than the upper to take the strain out of more uneven ground, others are even stiffer and, therefore, more comfortable on rockier ground. This, then, is a shoe that’s best kept to level paths to maintain comfort. 4/5
The weight is appealing for walking, with the outsole lugs doing a good job of gripping on softer terrain, but there‘s less support here for rockier ground. Also, the sole twists and flexes more easily than stiffer shoes, so is best suited to level terrain. The upper won’t last that long if used on rocks and for scrambling too often. Ideal for level, easy trekking terrain. 3/5
Other similarly priced shoes are more durable, so the Moab isn't a good investment in the long term – unless weight is a priority. 3/5
A lightweight shoe with a good grip and performance suited to easier, level paths rather than anything too 3.8/5 rough and rocky.