REASONS TO BUY
Lightweight and breathable design
Comfortable out of the box
Wide and regular widths
Solid traction
Affordable
REASONS TO AVOID
Limited durability and support
Not waterproof
Merrell Moab Speed 2 - Women's Review
This highly affordable design could be the perfect shoe to support your feet during day hikes in hot climates
Credit: Trish Matheny
By Trish Matheny ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ May 6, 2026
RELATED: The Best Hiking Shoes for Women
Our Verdict
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 is an affordable, lightweight hiking shoe that's perfect for fast and light day missions without a heavy load. The fit is true to size, comfortable direct from the box, and available in both wide and regular fits. It lacks the support of a traditional hiking boot yet still features a FloatPro foam midsole that provides squishy cushioning under foot, although we recommend an after-market insole for those with high arches. The shoe isn't waterproof, so it's great for those after a breathable desert shoe and the Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole is perfect for stability on well-maintained trails. Although we question the longevity of the mesh upper and the lacing attachments, this could be a worthwhile affordable option for those seeking a running shoe style with great traction.
Compare to Similar Products
 This Product
Merrell Moab Speed 2 - Women's | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards |  Best For Day Hikes |  Best Bang for the Buck | Best For Minimalist Design | Best Under $100 | |
| Price | $145 List Check REI (on sale!) | $200 List Check REI (on sale!) | $140 List Check REI (on sale!) | $145 List Check Price at REI | $80 List Check Price at Backcountry |
Overall Score  |
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| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | This highly affordable design could be the perfect shoe to support your feet during day hikes in hot climates | This shoe has ample cushioning and support within a stylish and waterproof design that provides excellent traction even on the most slippery terrain | This hiking shoe features a breathable and non-waterproof design offers a wide and stable base along with a beefy Vibram outsole, available at an affordable price | This minimalist design is perfect for those looking to shed the weight and bulk of a traditional hiking shoe | These highly affordable hiking shoes are perfect for day hikes and weekend adventures on well-maintained trails |
| Rating Categories | Merrell Moab Speed 2 | On Cloudrock Low Wat... | Merrell Moab 3 | Topo Athletic Terrav... | Columbia Crestwood |
| Comfort (30%) | |||||
| Support (25%) | |||||
| Traction (20%) | |||||
| Durability (15%) | |||||
| Water Resistance (5%) | |||||
| Weight (5%) | |||||
| Specifications | Merrell Moab Speed 2 | On Cloudrock Low Wat... | Merrell Moab 3 | Topo Athletic Terrav... | Columbia Crestwood |
| Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5) | 1.26 lbs | 1.54 lbs | 1.70 lbs | 1.1 lbs | 1.50 lbs |
| Upper | Engineered mesh/TPU | Recylced polyester, TPU | Pigskin leather, mesh | Recycled engineered mesh | Leather, mesh, and webbing |
| Lining | Recycled Mesh | DWR | Recycled mesh | Textile | Omni-Tech |
| Midsole | FloatPro foam | Plush Helion | Air cushion | ZipFoam™ EVA/TPU | Techlite |
| Outsole | Vibram TC5+ rubber | Missiongrip rubber | Vibram TC5 | Vibram Megagrip rubber | Omni-Grip |
| Width Options | Regular, wide | Regular | Regular, wide | Regular | Regular, wide |
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Merrell Moab Speed is a well-cushioned yet lightweight design that's breathable and non-waterproof making it great for day hikes in hot climates. Credit: Trish Matheny
Likes
Vibram traction is some of the best rubber for the trail. The Speed features Vibram TC5+ rubber that provides confidence underfoot in addition to a deep, chevron lug pattern that grips well in most terrain.
Vibram outsoles are a key feature of this lightweight design that's perfect for hot and dry climates. Credit: Trish Matheny
Similar to other trail running shoe-inspired designs, the Speed features a super lightweight design for those willing to swap a little support, durability, and trail protection. We had no hot spots or discomfort when tackling light-to-moderate trails. The padding around the heel and underfoot is enjoyable - not too much and not too little. We found these comfortable right out of the box.
Lightweight and perfect for day hikes on good trails. Credit: Trish Matheny
Dislikes
The lack of support in the lightweight construction can be an issue for anyone seeking more support for their ankles, knees, and back if carrying a heavy backpack. We love the lightness underfoot, and the FloatPro foam midsole for squishy cushioning, but the flexibility in the upper and the low ankle will make it difficult for anyone seeking support beyond an average lightweight running shoe.
The design lacks the support of a traditional hiking shoe do to the low ankle and flexible upper. Credit: Trish Matheny
We also question the longevity and durability of this design and recommend only using them on popular and well-maintained trails. The engineered mesh/TPU upper doesn't feature any rands or waterproof coatings and is susceptible to rips and tears on rugged trail. The toe cap is also minimal but the midsole does a decent job absorbing shock along the trail.
The Merrell Moab Speed says it all in the name, it's for those seeking fast and light performance but also willing to sacrifice some durability and support. Credit: Trish Matheny
Should You Buy the Merrell Moab Speed 2?
If you want a trail running shoe with excellent traction, the Speed is lightweight, affordable, and perfect for well-maintained trails. It is ready to go right out of the box, requiring no break-in time. They are best suited for warm climates as they are very breathable and not waterproof.
What Other Women's Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?
For a more durable option, we highly recommend the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof. It's our favorite choice for day hiking and features much more support through a high-quality design. We also love the Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof for those seeking a waterproof construction that's more durable and perfect for wide feet.
—Trish Matheny
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