Bottom Line
The Merrell Moab Speed 2 is a strong choice for hikers who want something lighter and sleeker than a traditional Moab without giving up hiking-specific protection. During CleverHiker testing on the PCT and in the Sierra Nevada, it handled rocky terrain, uneven ground, roots, and scrambling with a good balance of agility and protection.
Merrell adds a full-length FlexPlate, a protective toe and heel, and a Vibram TC5+ outsole while keeping the shoe around 1 pound 3 ounces per pair. That makes it much more athletic than the standard Moab 3.
Our main concern is fit. We found the shoe ran large enough to feel sloppy on uneven terrain, even with thicker socks, and recommend considering a half-size down. For day hiking and lighter backpacking, though, the Moab Speed 2 remains an appealing mix of style, weight, durability, and value in our best women’s hiking shoes lineup.
How We Tested
We tested the Moab Speed 2 on long trail days in the Sierra Nevada and along the Pacific Crest Trail, including rocky terrain, exposed roots, uneven ground, town transitions, and light scrambling. She evaluated comfort, fit, traction, weight, durability, and protection.
Quick Specs
- Best for: Day hiking, light backpacking, trail-to-town use
- Waterproof: No; GORE-TEX version available
- Fit: Runs large; consider sizing down a half size
- Outsole / lug depth: Vibram TC5+; 4 mm lugs
- Rock plate: Full-length FlexPlate
- Available widths: Medium; Wide available in select versions
Merrell Moab Speed 2
Best for Style, Weight, & Durability
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $145
Weight: 1 lb. 3.4 oz. per pair, manufacturer listed
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10 mm
Pros
- Lightweight
- Stylish trail-to-town design
- Comfortable with little break-in
- Full-length rock protection
- Good traction on mixed terrain
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- Runs large and can feel sloppy
- Less supportive for heavy loads
- Less cushioned than some trail-runner options
Comfort
The Moab Speed 2 feels more athletic than the traditional Moab line. The FloatPro midsole provides enough cushioning for long day hikes, and the shoe is comfortable enough that we kept wearing it after leaving the trail.
The main issue is sizing. Our test pair felt large, which reduced security on uneven terrain. Going down a half-size is worth considering if you are between sizes.
Comfort Score: 4.5 / 5.0
Traction
The Vibram TC5+ outsole and 4 mm lugs provide dependable grip on rock, dirt, roots, and normal mixed terrain. The tread also sheds debris well and complements the shoe’s light, agile feel.
It is not our most aggressive outsole for deep mud or technical wet rock, but it is well matched to day hiking and fast movement.
Traction Score: 3.9 / 5.0
Weight
At about 1 pound 3.4 ounces per pair, the Moab Speed 2 is substantially lighter than the standard Moab 3 while retaining more underfoot protection than a minimalist trail runner.
That combination makes it one of the more versatile options for hikers who want protection without a bulky feel.
Weight Score: 4.5 / 5.0
Durability
The reinforced upper, toe and heel protection, FlexPlate, and Vibram outsole give the Moab Speed 2 solid durability for its weight. Our testing did not reveal concerning early wear.
It is lighter and less overbuilt than a traditional leather hiker, so we would still choose something burlier for constant heavy-load travel or repeated off-trail abuse.
Durability Score: 4.0 / 5.0
Weather Resistance
The standard Moab Speed 2 prioritizes breathability over waterproofing. The engineered mesh upper keeps feet cooler and dries faster than a membrane-lined shoe.
For regular wet conditions, Merrell offers a GORE-TEX version. The standard model is better for warm, dry, or mixed three-season hiking.
Weather Resistance Score: 3.7 / 5.0
Should You Buy the Merrell Moab Speed 2?
Yes, if you want a lightweight, protective hiking shoe that transitions easily between trail and town. It is especially good for day hikes and light backpacking where a traditional Moab feels like too much shoe.
Look elsewhere if you carry heavy loads or need a very secure low-volume fit. The sizing runs large enough that fit should be checked carefully.
What Other Women’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?
Merrell Moab 3: Choose the Moab 3 if durability, support, and a traditional hiking-shoe feel matter more than weight. It is heavier but more substantial under load.
Saucony Peregrine 16: Pick the Peregrine 16 if you want an even lighter, more responsive trail-runner feel. It is faster and grippier but less protective and less supportive for backpacking.
Salomon X Ultra 5 Low: Consider the X Ultra 5 Low if you want stronger technical traction, a more secure fit, and better durability. It costs more but is more capable on rugged terrain.
