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The lightweight vision of a shoe worn by over 20 million people - Merrell Moab Speed

There are few hiking shoes that have become a gateway to the outdoors for such a massive audience as the Merrell Moab. Merrell Moab Speed is a modern, lightweight answer to where the legendary line would have evolved in five to ten years. It was created as a hybrid between a classic hiking shoe and trail running footwear, retaining the trust of the original while adding speed and reduced weight. Today, it ranks among the most popular models in the lightweight hiker segment.

History: What Moab would be if it were created today

The original Merrell Moab was introduced in 2007 and has since become, according to the brand itself, the most commercially successful hiking footwear in the world – over 20 million people have worn it globally. In 2021, Merrell introduced the lightweight variant Moab Speed alongside its sister model Moab Flight, both falling into the category of athletic outdoor hybrids. According to Ian Cobb, Senior Director of Design at Merrell, the creation was driven by a simple question: “If we were to think five to ten years ahead, where would Moab be? It would be lighter, it would be more cushioned. We should make it like Moab, but for speed." That’s exactly what Moab Speed represents.

Technology: FloatPro foam, FlexPlate, and Vibram TC5+

What makes Moab Speed faster and lighter than traditional hiking shoes are these elements:

• FloatPro foam: Full-length EVA midsole designed for lightweight yet durable comfort – in the second generation, Merrell increased the foam volume underfoot by 30% compared to the original, yet it remains significantly softer than the average hiking shoe.
• FlexPlate: A stabilizing plate in the midfoot that keeps the soft foam under control and ensures a balanced, not wobbly ride even on uneven terrain.
• Vibram TC5+ outsole: A sticky rubber compound with deep 4mm lugs that grip on mud, wet rocks, and loose soil.

Durability

Real-world tests show solid upper durability despite the lightweight synthetic construction – reviewers report good condition after over 400 km of combined trail and urban use, although the exposed foam in the midsole may start to tear around 80 km on very challenging, rocky terrain (e.g., in the Grand Canyon). So, expect a lifespan of around 400–600 km on regular, less extreme terrain.

Who the model is for

Moab Speed is a sports shoe for you if you’re looking for a light and fast alternative to traditional hiking shoes for day trips, dog walks, or less demanding treks – it’s less suitable for extremely technical, rocky terrain where more protection is needed.