Ask a group of experienced hikers about the Merrell Moab 3 and you’ll hear a split verdict — some praise its comfort, others question its durability over rough terrain. This data-backed comparison of the standard, GTX, and Mid GTX variants uses specs, user ratings, and price data to help you decide which fits your next trail.
Weight per shoe: ~454 g (men’s size 9) ·
Available widths: standard (D) and wide (2E) ·
Heel drop: 12 mm ·
Waterproof option: Gore-Tex on GTX models ·
Outsole brand: Vibram
Quick snapshot
- Launched in 2022 as third generation (The5KRunner review)
- GTX version includes Gore-Tex waterproof membrane (The5KRunner review)
- Audience score of 88 on RunRepeat (RunRepeat)
- Exact price of standard Moab 3 in Ireland varies across retailers
- Long-term durability beyond one year lacks systematic testing
- Long-term Gore-Tex membrane performance over multiple wet seasons unverified
- Original Moab released 2007 (Merrell brand history)
- Moab 2 in 2017, Moab 3 in 2022 (The5KRunner review)
- Moab 3 remains Merrell’s best-selling hiking shoe in 2025 (Merrell product page)
- Moab 3 is the current generation; no successor announced yet (Merrell official site)
Five key specs, one underlying trade-off: the Moab 3 family balances weight and protection differently across its lineup.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Release year | 2022 (third generation) |
| Upper material | pig suede and mesh (standard); added Gore-Tex on GTX |
| Sole technology | Vibram TC5+ (standard) or Vibram Megagrip (select models) |
| Fit type | medium (D) and wide (2E) in men’s; women’s medium (B) |
| Weight per shoe (men’s size 9) | ~454 g (standard), ~480 g (GTX), ~500 g (Mid GTX) |
| Heel drop | 12 mm |
| Warranty | 1 year from Merrell |
What are the main differences between Merrell Moab 3 and Moab 3 GTX?
Waterproof membrane (Gore-Tex vs none)
The deciding factor between standard and GTX is water protection. The GTX uses a Gore-Tex membrane that blocks moisture while letting vapor escape. On the standard model, the mesh and suede upper relies on water-resistance only — fine for dry trails but risky in rain. Field tests confirm that the GTX variant stays dry in shallow streams and persistent drizzle (The5KRunner field review).
Breathability and comfort in wet conditions
- Standard model breathes better because there’s no membrane — heat and sweat escape freely.
- GTX version retains more heat, and some users report clammy feet on warmer days.
- If you hike in dry climates or only on summer weekends, the non-GTX version is often more comfortable.
Price difference
GTX models typically cost €30–50 more than the standard version. For example, the Moab 3 Mid GTX retails at €159 on Outdoor Adventure Store (Irish outdoor retailer), while the standard Moab 3 runs closer to €120–130.
Bottom line: The Moab 3 is a breathable everyday hiker; the GTX is your shield against wet conditions. For Irish hikers facing rain most of the year, the €30–50 premium is a smart investment. For dry-climate walkers, the standard saves cash and keeps feet cooler.
GTX waterproofing adds weight and heat retention. RunRepeat measured the GTX model’s tread depth at 4.8 mm — thicker than the average hiking shoe’s 4.3 mm — but its shock absorption scored a low 85 SA, meaning you feel more impact on hard-packed trails (RunRepeat lab data).
The implication: choosing between standard and GTX means deciding whether waterproofing or breathability matters more for your typical terrain.
Is the Merrell Moab 3 good for wide feet?
Wide fit availability (2E)
Merrell offers the Moab 3 in wide (2E) sizing for men in several colorways. The shoe’s toe box is already roomier than many competitors, and the wide version adds crucial space for hikers with broader forefeet. Hiking Feet (specialist hiker review site) reports that the wide fit accommodates most users with 2E feet comfortably, though those with very wide feet may still need to size up half a step.
Fit feedback from users with wide feet
- Standard D width tends to pinch after several hours of walking if you have wide feet.
- Wide 2E version gives 5–7 mm extra width across the ball of the foot.
- Women’s model comes in medium (B) only — no wide option in most markets, which is a gap for female hikers with broad feet.
The pattern: the Moab 3 is one of the best off-the-shelf hiking shoes for wide feet, but the lack of women’s wide sizing means some female hikers must look elsewhere.
How does the Moab 3 Mid GTX compare to the standard Moab 3?
Ankle support and height
The Mid GTX rises several centimetres above the ankle. That extra height provides lateral support when scrambling over rocks or carrying a heavy pack. The standard low-top version offers more freedom of movement — better for fast day hikes on groomed trails.
Weight difference
- Standard Moab 3: ~454 g per shoe (men’s size 9).
- Mid GTX: approximately 500 g per shoe — about 10% heavier.
- That 46 g difference is noticeable on a long day but doesn’t fatigue most hikers.
Best use case for each
Choose the Low for fast hikes, warm weather, and terrain that doesn’t punish ankles. Choose the Mid GTX for multi-day treks, wet conditions, and rough ground where a twisted ankle could ruin your trip. The Mid GTX is priced around €159 at Outdoor Adventure Store (Dublin-based retailer).
Why this matters: The Mid GTX transforms the Moab 3 from a casual walker into a proper backpacking boot—but the added weight and reduced airflow make it a pair you’ll want to tailor to the specific trip, not wear every day.
If you’re tackling Ireland’s Wicklow Way or the Kerry Way in wet months, the Mid GTX is your best bet. For a coastal path in summer, the standard low-top will serve you better and save you €30+.
The catch: your decision hinges on whether you prioritize ankle protection or lightweight flexibility for the majority of your hikes.
Where to buy Merrell Moab 3 in Ireland?
Official Merrell Ireland
- Merrell.com (official brand store) ships to Ireland. Prices are RRP, but they often run clearance sales.
- Delivery takes 5–7 working days and returns are free within 30 days.
Outdoor Adventure Store (Dublin)
Carries the Moab 3 Mid GTX at €159 and the standard low version at around €130. They also stock wide fit options in limited colors. Outdoor Adventure Store is a dedicated outdoor retailer with a physical shop in Dublin.
Sports Direct Ireland
Often has the standard Moab 3 at discounted prices, but stock varies. They rarely carry the GTX or wide fit versions. Check Sports Direct Ireland online for current availability.
Landers.ie
An Irish online shoe retailer that offers Moab 3 in wide fit for both men and women in select colorways. Landers.ie is a solid option if you need width-specific sizing and want to support an Irish business.
The catch: Prices across these Irish retailers differ by up to €20 for the same shoe. It pays to check at least two before buying.
Is the Merrell Moab 3 waterproof?
Waterproof vs water-resistant
- Standard Moab 3: The mesh and suede upper is water-resistant — it repels light splashes and dries fast, but it soaks through in sustained rain.
- Moab 3 GTX: Fully waterproof thanks to the Gore-Tex membrane. The5KRunner field review confirms it holds up under running water after several hours.
Gore-Tex membrane performance
Gore-Tex’s tested water column rating is 28 metres, meaning the membrane can withstand extreme water pressure before leaking. In practice, this means you can wade through shallow streams up to the collar without wet feet — as long as the tongue and seals are intact.
Care and maintenance
To keep the Gore-Tex layer working, clean mud off the upper and reproof the fabric with a DWR spray after every few wears. The standard model can be machine washed; the GTX should be hand washed to avoid damaging the membrane.
What this means: Calling the Moab 3 “waterproof” is only correct when you add GTX — the standard version is a casual-weather shoe, not a wet-weather boot.
Merrell Moab 3 Overview Grid
The lineup breaks into four core variants, each tuned for a different balance of weight, protection, and terrain.
| Variant | Upper | Outsole | Weight (approx.) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Moab 3 Low | Mesh + suede | Vibram TC5+ | 454 g | Dry day hikes, wide feet |
| Moab 3 GTX Low | Mesh + suede + Gore-Tex | Vibram TC5+ | 480 g | Wet trails, everyday waterproofing |
| Moab 3 Mid GTX | Mesh + suede + Gore-Tex | Vibram TC5+ | 500 g | Rough terrain, ankle support, rain |
| Moab 3 Women’s Low | Mesh + suede (narrower last) | Vibram TC5+ | ~420 g | Women’s-specific fit, dry trails |
Pros and cons of the Merrell Moab 3
Upsides
- Excellent out-of-box comfort — minimal break-in period
- Vibram outsole gives reliable grip on dry and wet rock
- Available in wide (2E) for broader feet
- Gore-Tex option provides genuine waterproofing
- Competitive price point vs. other “waterproof” hikers
Downsides
- Low shock absorption (85 SA) compared to many rivals
- Durability doubts on aggressive trails after one year
- Standard model not waterproof
- Women’s wide sizing not available in all colors
- Moab 3 GTX runs warm in summer
“The Moab 3 is a good fit for wide feet but has below-average support for technical trails.”
— Hiking Feet review author (Hiking Feet)
“Merrell says the Moab 3 includes a ‘new more supportive insole and softer more cushioned midsole’ compared to the Moab 2.”
— Merrell official product description
The contrast between those two quotes sums up the Moab 3’s paradox: it’s generous to your feet but not to your ability to handle rough ground. Beginners and casual walkers will love the cushion; experienced hikers pushing into scree and boulders will want more support.
mountaineerjourney.com, sectionhiker.com, youtube.com, trailandtravelgear.com
Frequently asked questions
Is the Merrell Moab 3 true to size?
Most users say it runs slightly large. If you have narrow feet, consider going down half a size. The wide fit version accommodates those with 2E width without needing to size up.
Can the Moab 3 be resoled?
No — the Vibram outsole is bonded directly to the midsole and cannot be replaced. Once the tread wears down, the shoe needs replacing. Expect 500–800 km of use depending on terrain.
Does the Moab 3 come in half sizes?
Yes, from size 7 to 15 in men’s and 5 to 12 in women’s. Half sizes are available for both standard and wide widths in most colors.
How do you clean Merrell Moab 3 shoes?
For standard version: machine wash cold, air dry. For GTX: hand wash with mild soap, then reapply a DWR spray to restore water repellency.
Is the Moab 3 suitable for winter hiking?
The Mid GTX is fine for winter if you wear thick socks and don’t need full insulation. The standard version lacks waterproofing, so it’s not ideal for snowy or wet winter trails.
What is the weight difference between the Moab 3 and Moab 3 GTX?
The GTX model is about 25–30 g heavier per shoe due to the membrane. The Mid GTX adds another 45 g for the extra ankle height.
For Irish hikers, the decision is clear: if you regularly walk the rain-soaked trails of the Wicklow Mountains or the Kerry Way, you need the Moab 3 Mid GTX — the extra €30 buys genuine waterproofing and ankle protection. For dry-day rambles on the coast or in the Phoenix Park, the standard Moab 3 Low saves money and keeps feet cooler. The Moab 3 is not a technical mountain boot; it’s a comfortable, reliable hiking shoe that does everything a beginner needs and nothing an expert wants — and that’s exactly why it’s still Merrell’s bestseller.
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Ryan Hughes is Senior Reporter at Australia Current, covering breaking stories and explainers.