The Best Merrell Hiking Boots I Have Found.

A Merrell Hiking Boots Quick Review.

Which Merrell hiking boots are the best? What should you look for?

As I've mentioned on the Merrell hiking shoes page, Merrell has been in business for 20+ years. They have a 1 year warranty on their shoes and boots, while they cover sandals for 90 days. Their warranty applies to defective materials or workmanship. The fact that Merrell hiking boots and shoes are covered for an entire year seems pretty generous to me, although I've been known to be hard on my shoes. ;-)

The big thing though is what it says about them... they believe in their product. That being said, as with any camping gear or hiking equipment company Merrell has some products that are better than others...

Save time, money, and get the most usable
camping and hiking information Free. Click
here and subscribe to our newsletter.

$Merrell-Hiking-Boots-Switchback-Gore-Tex$ The best Merrell boots I've found are the Men's Switchback Gore-Tex� Merrell Hiking Boots (the link will take you to Altrec a great store with great customer service). I don't recommend the Women's Switchback at this time. Although Merrell customers are use to boots and shoes that are ready to go and comfortable right out of the box, most hiking boots require a break-in period. Depending on who you talk to the Switchback's may or may not require break-in. I'd wear them for a week or two before I went on any major hikes just to be sure, just like any other boot.

The soles are made of Vibram� which in my experience seems to last longer and provide more traction than standard rubber soles. More traction inspires more confidence.

It seems that most of the complaints with this particular model of Merrell hiking boots revolve around the lacing system. These range from being tricky to adjust to broken lacing anchors. Otherwise the boots seem to be made quite well. If you insist on Merrell hiking boots I'd definitely consider the Switchbacks, as they're the best hiking boot they currently offer. If however you're open to another brand I think that there are better boots to be had. Have a look at the hiking boots page for an article on what to look for and how to select hiking boots.

Also, take a look at Merrell hiking shoes, because they do offer some great shoes.

Pros: Usually comfortable once broken in. The Vibram� sole offers good traction in various hiking conditions. With the all the waterproof leathers, mesh and Gore-Tex� used in this boot, the only reason your feet should get wet is if water comes in over the top of the boot.

Cons: The lacing system in these Merrell hiking boots can be tricky and somewhat fragile.

Merrell hiking boots have been great in the past, so I wouldn't count them out. This page will be updated as better boots prove themselves or if some need to be dropped because of discontinued models or poor performance.