Finding the perfect hiking shoe can be difficult. They need to be comfortable, durable, and reliable, capable of handling long treks and rugged terrains. With so many great options out there, it can be hard to know which women’s hiking shoe is the best. My favorite neutral women’s hiking shoe is the Merrell Moab 3.

In this blog, we'll explore why the Moab 3 is often touted as the best women's hiking shoe for day hiking and what makes it stand out in the realm of neutral women's hiking shoes.

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Shop the Merrell Moab 3

Merrell has a reputation for producing high-quality outdoor footwear, and the Moab series is no exception. The Moab 3 Waterproof Women's Hiking Boot is part of this celebrated line, known for its versatility and comfort.

Key Features

Waterproof Performance: The Moab 3 features Merrell's M-Select™ DRY technology, making it waterproof while allowing moisture to escape. This ensures your feet stay dry, even when trekking through wet terrain or unexpected rain showers.
All-Day Comfort: These boots are equipped with a contoured footbed with added arch and heel support. This provides excellent cushioning and arch support, allowing you to hike comfortably all day long.
Vibram® Outsole: The Vibram® TC5+ outsole offers outstanding traction, providing stability on various terrains, from rocky trails to slippery slopes. The traction on these shoes is phenomenal.
Protection and Stability: These boots feature a molded nylon arch shank, offering added support and stability on uneven terrain. One of my favorite features is the protective rubber toe cap, which guards against the times you inevitably kick rocks on the trail.
Women's-Specific Fit: Too often, gear is designed for men, by men. Merrell understands the importance of a well-fitting shoe. The Moab 3 is designed with a women's-specific fit, ensuring that it caters to the unique shape and needs of women's feet.

The Top 4 Reasons I love the Merrell Moab 3

Lightweight: These boots are relatively lightweight for hiking boots (especially waterproof ones), which is perfect for day hikes where you want to conserve energy.
Breathability: The combination of suede leather and mesh in the upper promotes breathability, preventing your feet from getting overly sweaty during your hikes. This is key in preventing blisters!
Quick Break-In: The Moab 3 requires minimal break-in time, so you can hit the trails comfortably from day one. I didn’t spend any time breaking in my Merrell’s and found they were comfortable right out of the box.
Weather Protection: The waterproof feature ensures you're prepared for unexpected weather changes without compromising comfort. I love that I can comfortably wear these shoes in all 4 seasons, making them a great investment.

In the world of hiking boots, the Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Women's Hiking Boot stands out as one of the best women's hiking shoes for day hiking. Its neutral design, waterproof performance, all-day comfort, and durability make it a top choice for both novice and experienced hikers. Whether you're planning a leisurely day hike or tackling more challenging terrain, the Moab 3 has got you covered.