Merrell Moab 3 vs Salomon X Ultra 4: Best in 200-Mile Test

💡 Pro Tip: Pricing changes frequently on both boots. Click “View Current Price” buttons for up-to-date availability and deals.

🥾 What You’ll Learn in This Head-to-Head Battle

MERRELL MOAB 3 – The Comfort Champion

Philosophy: Maximum comfort, maximum durability, traditional construction
Weight: 2 lbs 4 oz (pair)
Outsole: Vibram TC5+
Upper: Pigskin leather + mesh
Waterproofing: M Select Dry (or Gore-Tex in GTX version)
Best For: All-day comfort, traditional hikers, heavy packs

OTL Rating: 9.1/10

SALOMON X ULTRA 4 – The Technical Performer

Philosophy: Trail-runner agility, technical precision, modern materials
Weight: 1 lb 14 oz (pair)
Outsole: Contagrip MA
Upper: Synthetic textile
Waterproofing: Gore-Tex
Best For: Fast hiking, technical terrain, agility-focused hikers

OTL Rating: 9.3/10

🏆 Best Overall: TIE—depends entirely on your hiking style (see recommendations below)

💰 Best Value: Merrell Moab 3—better cost-per-mile, longer lifespan, wider availability

⚡ Best Performance: Salomon X Ultra 4—superior traction, lighter weight, more technical

😌 Best Comfort: Merrell Moab 3—zero break-in, plushest cushioning, most forgiving fit

🏔️ Test 1: Traction & Stability

Test Conditions: Wet rock slabs, loose gravel, muddy descents, steep technical sections with 35lb pack.

Merrell Moab 3 (Vibram TC5+):

• Dry rock: 8/10 (confident, traditional lug pattern)
• Wet rock: 7/10 (adequate but not exceptional)
• Mud: 8/10 (lugs shed well, 5mm depth effective)
• Loose gravel: 8/10 (stable, burly construction helps)
• Overall traction: 7.5/10

Salomon X Ultra 4 (Contagrip MA):

• Dry rock: 9/10 (excellent bite, chevron lugs grip)
• Wet rock: 9.5/10 (confidence-inspiring, best tested)
• Mud: 9/10 (aggressive pattern, excellent shedding)
• Loose gravel: 9/10 (superior edging, nimble footwork)
• Overall traction: 9.25/10

Winner: Salomon X Ultra 4
The Contagrip MA outsole dominated every surface type. On wet rock, the difference was dramatic—30% better grip by subjective measurement. The chevron lug pattern bit into surfaces where the Moab 3’s more traditional pattern slipped. This was the most decisive victory in any test category.

😌 Test 2: Comfort & Break-In

Test Conditions: Worn from brand new, tracked blisters and hot spots, measured usable comfort mileage.

Merrell Moab 3:

• Out-of-box comfort: 10/10 (legendary, immediately wearable)
• Break-in distance: 0-5 miles (essentially none required)
• Blisters: Zero across 200 miles
• Cushioning: Plush, soft, forgiving
• Long-day comfort (12+ hours): 9/10
• Foot fatigue: Minimal due to cushioning

Salomon X Ultra 4:

• Out-of-box comfort: 7/10 (stiff initially, narrow midfoot)
• Break-in distance: 10-15 miles (noticeable break-in needed)
• Blisters: Minor heel friction miles 5-15, then resolved
• Cushioning: Firm, responsive, less plush
• Long-day comfort (12+ hours): 8/10 (after break-in)
• Foot fatigue: Moderate—lighter weight helps but firmer platform tires feet faster

Winner: Merrell Moab 3
This wasn’t even close. The Moab 3’s legendary out-of-box comfort proved accurate—I wore them on a 10-mile hike straight from the box with zero issues.

The Salomon required 10-15 miles before the midfoot loosened and heel friction disappeared. For hikers who hate break-in periods, the Moab 3 is unbeatable.

⚖️ Test 3: Durability After 200 Miles

Test Conditions: Measured outsole wear with calipers, inspected uppers and stitching, projected lifespan.

Merrell Moab 3:

• Outsole wear: 10% (Vibram holding strong)
• Upper condition: Excellent (pigskin leather durable)
• Mesh areas: Minor abrasion at seams (expected)
• Stitching: All intact, no concerns
• Projected lifespan: 700-800 miles
• Cost per mile: $0.18

Salomon X Ultra 4:

• Outsole wear: 18% (soft Contagrip showing faster wear)
• Upper condition: Good (some minor scuffing)
• Welded seams: Holding but less robust than stitching
• Inner lining: Minor wear at heel (common issue reported)
• Projected lifespan: 500-600 miles
• Cost per mile: $0.28

Winner: Merrell Moab 3
The Moab 3’s traditional construction proved more durable. The Salomon’s softer Contagrip rubber (what makes it grip so well) wears faster. After 200 miles, the Salomon showed nearly double the outsole wear of the Merrell.

For a detailed breakdown of how budget, mid-range, and premium boots compare in durability testing, see our comprehensive cheap vs expensive hiking boots analysis with cost-per-mile data across six boot models.

And if you listen to music or podcasts on the trail, check out our AirPods Pro 2 vs Sony earbuds comparison for trail-worthy audio gear.

💧 Test 4: Waterproofing Performance

Test Conditions: Creek crossings, sustained rain, muddy conditions, dry-time measurement.

Merrell Moab 3 (M Select Dry):

• Light rain: Excellent for 4+ hours
• Heavy rain: Mesh absorbs water, feels heavy
• Creek crossings: Stayed dry (shallow crossings only)
• Dry time: 24+ hours (leather holds moisture)
• Rating: 7.5/10

Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX (Gore-Tex version):

• All conditions: Significantly better waterproofing
• Performance: Comparable to Salomon
• Rating: 9/10

Salomon X Ultra 4 (Gore-Tex):

• Light & heavy rain: Perfect protection
• Creek crossings: Bone dry (6-inch depth tested)
• Dry time: 12-18 hours (synthetic dries faster)
• Breathability: Excellent for Gore-Tex
• Rating: 9/10

Winner: Salomon X Ultra 4 (standard model) / Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX (upgraded version)
The Salomon comes with Gore-Tex as standard. The base Moab 3 uses M Select Dry, which works but isn’t as robust. However, the Moab 3 Mid GTX (upgraded version) matches the Salomon’s waterproofing. Key difference: the Salomon’s synthetic upper dries in half the time of the Moab’s leather.

⚡ Test 5: Weight & Agility

Test Conditions: Timed descents, technical sections requiring quick footwork, all-day fatigue assessment.

Merrell Moab 3:

• Weight (pair): 2 lbs 4 oz (36 oz)
• Feel: Traditional hiking boot—stable but less nimble
• Descent speed: Moderate (cautious due to weight)
• Technical footwork: 6/10 (competent but not agile)
• Best for: Steady pace, traditional hiking

Salomon X Ultra 4:

• Weight (pair): 1 lb 14 oz (30 oz)
• Feel: Trail-runner inspired—nimble and responsive
• Descent speed: Fast (confident, agile)
• Technical footwork: 9/10 (excellent for quick movements)
• Best for: Fast hiking, technical terrain

Winner: Salomon X Ultra 4
The 6-ounce weight difference (17% lighter) is immediately noticeable. The Salomon feels like an extension of your foot, allowing quick adjustments on technical terrain. The Moab 3 feels more like a traditional boot—stable and protective but less agile. On steep descents, I consistently moved 15-20% faster in the Salomon.

🎯 Traction: Salomon Dominates

The Salomon’s Contagrip MA outsole is genuinely superior to the Merrell’s Vibram TC5+. On wet rock—where traction matters most—the difference is dramatic. The chevron-shaped lugs bite into surfaces where traditional lug patterns slip.

Real-world impact: On technical descents with wet conditions, I felt confident pushing pace in the Salomon. In the Merrell, I moved cautiously. If you hike technical trails with exposure or frequently encounter wet conditions, this alone justifies the Salomon.

Winner: Salomon X Ultra 4 (by significant margin)

💰 Value: Merrell Wins Cost-Per-Mile

Despite similar retail prices, the Merrell delivers better long-term value:

Merrell Moab 3:
• Lifespan: 700 miles
• Cost per mile: $0.18
• Time to replacement: 4.4 years (at 20 hikes/year, 8 miles average)

Salomon X Ultra 4:
• Lifespan: 500 miles
• Cost per mile: $0.28
• Time to replacement: 3.1 years (same hiking frequency)

Winner: Merrell Moab 3 (40% better cost-per-mile)

😌 Comfort: Merrell’s Legendary Reputation Deserved

The Moab 3’s out-of-box comfort isn’t marketing hype—it’s real. Zero break-in, plush cushioning, and a forgiving fit make it the most comfortable boot I’ve tested for traditional hiking.

The Salomon requires patience. The first 10-15 miles feature midfoot pressure and heel friction. After break-in, it’s comfortable but never reaches the Moab’s plush, forgiving feel.

If you value immediate comfort above all else: Merrell Moab 3 wins decisively.

If you prioritize responsive feel over plush comfort: Salomon delivers after break-in.

⚡ Weight & Speed: Salomon for Technical Hikers

The 6-ounce difference matters more than you’d expect. Over 8 miles (average hike), you’ll lift that extra 6 ounces thousands of times. The cumulative fatigue is real.

Salomon advantages:
• Faster descent speed (15-20% measured improvement)
• Better technical footwork
• Less leg fatigue on long days
• More confidence on technical terrain

If you hike fast, tackle technical trails, or value agility, the Salomon’s weight advantage is worth the trade-offs in comfort and durability.

🥾 Buy the MERRELL MOAB 3 if you:

✓ Prioritize immediate comfort above everything

Zero break-in, plush cushioning, forgiving fit. If you’ve been burned by uncomfortable boots before, the Moab 3 eliminates that risk entirely.

✓ Hike established trails at moderate pace

The Moab 3 excels on well-maintained trails where agility matters less than all-day comfort. Perfect for state park hiking, forest service trails, national park paths.

✓ Want maximum durability and value

700-mile lifespan and $0.18 cost-per-mile make it the value champion. Traditional stitched construction beats welded seams for longevity.

✓ Need wide sizes or have wider feet

The Moab 3 comes in extensive wide sizes and has a naturally roomier fit. The Salomon runs narrow.

✓ Prefer traditional hiking boot feel

If you’ve always hiked in traditional boots and like that stable, planted feel, the Moab 3 delivers without compromise.

✓ Carry heavy packs (30+ pounds)

The Moab 3’s beefy construction and supportive platform handle weight better. The Salomon feels less stable under heavy loads. For essential gear to pack on day hikes and overnight trips, see our complete day hiking gear checklist.

⚡ Buy the SALOMON X ULTRA 4 if you:

✓ Hike technical terrain regularly

The superior traction on wet rock, loose terrain, and technical sections makes the Salomon the clear choice for challenging trails. If you encounter exposure, scrambling, or routinely face wet conditions, the traction advantage alone justifies it.

✓ Value speed and agility

The 6-ounce weight savings and trail-runner-inspired design allow faster pace and quicker footwork. On descents, I consistently moved 15-20% faster in the Salomon.

✓ Want Gore-Tex as standard

The Salomon includes Gore-Tex waterproofing in the base model. The base Moab 3 uses M Select Dry (adequate but not as robust). The Moab 3 Mid GTX matches it but costs more.

✓ Prefer firm, responsive platform

The Salomon’s firmer midsole provides better ground feel and more precise footwork. If you find overly cushioned boots mushy or imprecise, you’ll prefer the Salomon.

✓ Don’t mind break-in periods

If you’re willing to invest 10-15 miles breaking in boots for better long-term performance, the Salomon rewards that patience.

✓ Hike frequently with lighter packs

For day hiking and lightweight overnight trips (under 30 pounds), the Salomon’s agility advantage outweighs the Moab’s comfort advantage.

🤔 Still Can’t Decide? Answer These 3 Questions

Q1: What percentage of your hikes involve wet rock, technical sections, or scrambling?

• Over 50% → Salomon (traction advantage critical)
• Under 50% → Merrell (comfort more valuable)

Q2: How important is out-of-box comfort to you?

• Critical (hate break-in) → Merrell (zero break-in)
• Not important (willing to break in) → Either boot works

Q3: What’s your typical hiking pace?

• Fast (2.5+ mph) → Salomon (weight/agility matters)
• Moderate (under 2.5 mph) → Merrell (comfort matters more)

Merrell Moab 3 — America’s Best-Selling Boot

Pigskin Leather Upper | Vibram TC5+ Outsole | Kinetic Fit Advanced Insole | Air Cushion Heel

OTL Rating: 9.1/10 | Tested Miles: 200+

The Merrell Moab (Mother Of All Boots) is the best-selling hiking boot in America for good reason. The third generation refines an already-proven design without abandoning what made it legendary.

What Makes It Special:

• Zero Break-In: Genuinely comfortable from the first step. I hiked 10 miles out-of-box with zero hot spots or blisters.
• Plush Cushioning: The Merrell Air Cushion heel and EVA midsole provide comfort that lasts all day. After 12-hour days, my feet felt less fatigued in these than any other boot.
• Kinetic Fit Advanced Insole: The molded nylon arch shank provides support without feeling intrusive. Better arch support than previous Moab generations.
• Vibram TC5+ Outsole: Proven durability. After 200 miles, only 10% wear—projects to 700+ mile lifespan.
• Wide Size Availability: Extensive wide options accommodate broader feet. The regular width already runs roomier than the Salomon.
• Recycled Materials: 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining—environmentally conscious without performance compromise.

Real-World Performance:

After 200 miles, the Moab 3 remains my go-to for comfort-focused hiking. The pigskin leather upper has developed a nice patina without showing excessive wear. The mesh panels show minor abrasion at seams (expected for this construction), but nothing concerning.

The bellows tongue effectively keeps out debris—I hiked through dusty conditions without issue. The protective toe cap has taken multiple rock impacts without damage.

Waterproofing note: The base model uses M Select Dry membrane (adequate for light rain and brief creek crossings). For serious wet conditions, the Moab 3 Mid GTX with Gore-Tex is the better choice.

Minor Drawbacks:

Weight (2 lbs 4 oz) feels noticeable on long days compared to lighter alternatives. On technical terrain requiring quick footwork, the Moab 3 feels less agile. Traction on wet rock is adequate but not exceptional—the Vibram TC5+ doesn’t grip as well as Salomon’s Contagrip MA.

The plush cushioning that makes it comfortable also makes it less responsive. If you value ground feel and precise footwork, the softer platform may feel mushy. For comprehensive women’s sizing and fit recommendations across multiple brands, see our women’s hiking boots guide.

Salomon X Ultra 4 — The Technical Performer

Gore-Tex Waterproof | Contagrip MA Outsole | Advanced Chassis | Quicklace System

OTL Rating: 9.3/10 | Tested Miles: 200+

The Salomon X Ultra 4 represents the modern evolution of hiking boots—trail-runner agility with hiking-boot protection. The fourth generation refines an already-excellent design.

What Makes It Special:

• Superior Traction: The Contagrip MA outsole dominated every surface in testing. On wet rock, it outperformed Vibram by a significant margin. The chevron lug pattern provides exceptional bite.
• Advanced Chassis: The ADV-C Chassis provides lateral stability without sacrificing flexibility. Targets articulations on the outer foot for optimized support.
• Gore-Tex Standard: Waterproof protection comes standard, not as an upgrade. The synthetic upper dries in half the time of leather alternatives.
• Lightweight (1 lb 14 oz): 6 ounces lighter than the Moab 3 per pair. The difference is immediately noticeable on long days and technical terrain.
• Quicklace System: One-pull lacing saves time and maintains consistent tension. The lace pocket on the tongue keeps excess lace secure.
• Agility: Trail-runner-inspired design allows quick footwork on technical terrain. Feels like an extension of your foot rather than a traditional boot.

Real-World Performance:

After 200 miles, the X Ultra 4 has proven itself on technical terrain. The traction advantage over the Moab 3 is real and consistent—on wet rock, muddy descents, and loose gravel, I felt significantly more confident.

The Advanced Chassis provides stability without the weight penalty of traditional boot construction. On off-camber terrain and technical sections, the lateral support prevented ankle rolls while maintaining freedom of movement.

Gore-Tex waterproofing performed flawlessly through creek crossings and sustained rain. The synthetic upper dried overnight—a significant advantage over leather boots that require 24+ hours.

Minor Drawbacks:

Break-in required 10-15 miles before the midfoot loosened and heel friction disappeared. Not terrible, but noticeable compared to the Moab 3’s zero break-in.

Durability concerns emerged after 200 miles. The soft Contagrip rubber (what makes traction so good) shows 18% wear—nearly double the Moab 3’s wear. Projected lifespan of 500-600 miles is respectable but shorter than the Moab 3’s 700+ miles.

The Quicklace system doesn’t allow as much customization as traditional laces. Some testers reported difficulty achieving perfect fit with the one-pull system.

The narrow fit won’t accommodate wider feet—if you need wide sizes, the Moab 3 is the better choice. For senior hikers seeking supportive yet comfortable options, check our adaptive hiking gear guide.

🎥 Real User Review: Columbia Newton Ridge

“These are my favorite hiking boots for day hikes – comfortable right out of the box and great value!”

Real user testimonial – the budget option many hikers overlook

Merrell vs Salomon FAQ: Your Questions Answered

💡 Pricing changes frequently on both boots. Click buttons for current availability.

Ready to Choose Your Boot?

Real 200-mile testing | Head-to-head comparison | OTL tested & rated

This comparison was last updated in November 2025 based on 200 miles of head-to-head testing. Both boots tested in Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains by Outdoor Tech Lab.