A five‑year owner shares a detailed take on the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GORE‑TEX hiking shoe and highlights the current spring sale price of £69 and dwindling stock
A longtime owner says the Merrell Moab Speed 2 with a GORE‑TEX membrane kept going after five years of near‑daily wear — mud, rain and mountain tracks included — and still felt comfortable and waterproof. Now the shoe has turned up in a spring sale for £69, and some sizes are already selling out (original report published 18/02/12:30).
Why this matters Durable, weatherproof trail shoes are increasingly chosen over seasonal fashion trainers. A robust upper, a true waterproof liner and the option to repair worn parts can stretch a shoe’s life and cut the cost per mile. Firsthand accounts like this one give a clearer sense of how the Moab Speed 2 ages in real use: how the fit changes, how the cushioning holds up, and whether the current sale is worth snapping up before stock disappears.
How they fit and feel Think of the Moab Speed 2 as a halfway house between a nimble trail runner and a stout day hiker. The toe box is generous, the heel counter firm, and the If you plan to wear thick socks for winter walks, bumping up by half a size is sensible.
Narrow feet may find the fit less precise than a race‑oriented model.
Ride and traction The midsole offers a responsive, protective feel that softens a touch with heavy use but continues to shield from jolts on long walks. Owners who logged years of regular use noticed some compression in the foam, but not enough to ruin comfort on extended outings. The outsole lugs kept good bite on muddy tracks and compact gravel, so traction stayed dependable. Transitions are steady and predictable rather than springy.
Waterproofing and breathability The GORE‑TEX liner reportedly kept water out while allowing enough vapor out to avoid major overheating in cool to mild conditions. In very hot, humid weather breathability is more of a limitation — these are happiest in temperate climates. For day hikes, mixed urban‑to‑trail commutes and multi‑day routes with moderate loads, the balance of protection and comfort works well. They aren’t designed for heavy technical backpacking or ultralight speed missions.
Care that pays off A little maintenance goes a long way. Brush or rinse mud and salt off soon after use, wash with mild soap, and steer clear of direct heat when drying — heat accelerates midsole breakdown. When the upper stops beading, reapply a suitable water‑repellent; that refreshes the finish without damaging the membrane. Rotate shoes, keep an eye on stitching and tread depth, and consider resoling when the outsole wears flat to squeeze more seasons out of them.
Sizing, colours and stock Merrell lists medium widths across a broad size range (roughly UK 7–15) in shades like Coyote, Black and Navy Night, though availability varies by retailer. Most buyers report taking their normal sneaker size; go up for wider feet or heavier socks. If you need a precise fit or expect to cover high weekly mileage, try them on first.
Is £69 a good deal? At £69 this is a notable discount compared with typical retail for waterproof hiking shoes. Early in the sale several sizes were moving quickly, so if your size is showing, don’t be surprised if it disappears. That said, prioritise fit and intended use over chasing the cheapest price — a correctly sized, well‑cared‑for pair will almost always outperform a cheaper, poorly fitting replacement over time.
Quick buying checklist – Confirm your usual size and try them on with the socks you’ll wear hiking. – Check the retailer’s returns policy before you buy. – Look at sole condition and stitching if you’re buying a discounted floor model. – If you need specialist kit for technical mountaineering or ultralight fastpacking, compare specs — the Moab Speed 2 is a versatile everyday hiker, not a specialist.
If the mix of waterproofing, comfort and durability sounds right for your needs, the £69 price is a tempting entry point — but stock is moving fast.
