Merrell Hydro Moc Review

Bottom Line

The Merrell Hydro Moc is like the Crocs Classic Clog but with better support. That’s why we’ve added it to our latest list of the best camp shoes.

This is a lightweight, aerated, and flexible water shoe made from a waterproof EVA foam. We love how the insole meets the arch of our foot and how it feels like our foot can sink into the shoe. They feel more supportive than the Crocs but less than the KEEN Hyperport H2 Sandal. Regardless, the shoe felt secure, especially with how the articulated heel fit around our ankle . . . until we started walking around. 

This shoe loses points with us for its lackluster fit. One of the first things we noticed was the heel coming up and down as we walked. After about a mile or so, we began to feel the beginnings of a heel blister. The second thing we noticed was our toes scrunching up and hitting the top of the shoe. We were put off by the rubbing and fit issues of the shoe.

These were more comfortable when wearing socks. If this water shoe fits you, it could be a camp shoe for wet and dry conditions.

How We Tested

We tested this water shoe on a travel day which included casual strolling, carrying heavy suitcases, and standing for long stretches. We also tested this by taking it on a flat, two-mile walk on mixed surfaces including pavement, dirt, grass, gravel, and water. Finally, we conducted tests in the office for support and durability.

COMFORT

We thought that the Merrell Hydro Moc would rate higher for comfort, but we found fit issues we could not overlook. Our big toe was squished to the top of the shoe. We would recommend going up a half size, but user reviews complain about the arch being in the wrong spot after sizing up. When we were testing, the arch support hit our foot correctly, so we would be hesitant to size up. 

Another issue was rubbing at the ankle. These Mocs are not made to be worn with socks, but even with socks on, we felt rubbing as we packed the car up for camp. We also felt the heel moving up and down during our testing. 

Other than that, the fit is really comfortable. The shoe has a wide toe box that allows toes to spread out and wiggle. It fits well around the back. 

We were also shocked at how easy this shoe is to slip on. They may look tight and hard to slide into, but the foam material is flexible. They don’t slip on like the OOfos OOriginal, but it just takes a couple of fingers to slip into the heel strap.

VERSATILITY

This water shoe tries to go above its intended use to adapt to rough terrain and added miles. However, we weren’t too impressed with its performance on land. The heel straps secured the mocs to our feet, but we felt the need to wear socks for comfort if we did any real walking. While testing, we walked through wet grass and then over a packed dirt trail. This covered the shoes in dirt, and we could feel the dirt between our toes. The bottom didn’t provide great traction, either –– its traction was not as good as the Aquagrip on the KEEN Hyperport H2 Sandal. 

These shoes are pretty light at 12.3 ounces – though not as light as the Crocs Classic Clogs. They were light enough to pack for backpacking. Overall, though, we preferred them as water shoes over other uses.

SUPPORT

When we first slipped the Hydro Moc on, its sole seemed to hug our feet and lift up our tired arches. 

We also conducted the bend, twist, squeeze test on these shoes to test the support. By placing the toe on the ground and pressing down on the heel, we tested stability by seeing where the moc bent. The Merrell passed this test – the toe box folded but the sole remained solid. 

Next, we twisted it –– taking the heel in one hand and the toe in the other then pushing in opposite directions –– we can see how stable and supportive it was. The Hydro Moc resisted twisting, showing that it is quite supportive. 

Finally, by taking the heel in the hand and squeezing, we can test the support in the back of the shoe. Again, the shoe should resist movement. This shoe passed this test as well. 

DURABILITY

The Hydro Moc is a durable shoe. From its materials to our testing, we found almost no complaints of how these shoes hold up over time. 

The Hydro Moc’s uppers are made from EVA foam, which is a copolymer that takes on the characteristics of plastic and rubber. It’s a material that offers amazing flexibility and still snaps back into place. The remainder of the shoe is made from BLOOM performance foam, which is a proprietary foam made in part from algae. This material mimics plastic, including its durability. 

We found no issues with durability after our outdoor testing of this shoe. Although some customer reviews complained of quality, pointing out that not only are these changed from older models but that the soles didn’t hold up over time.

Should You Buy the Merrell Hydro Moc?

The Merrell Hydro Moc may be a good option for someone who is looking for a more stable version of a Crocs Classic Clogs. The heel support keeps the foot in place even when walking quickly or jumping around. 

These shoes probably wouldn’t be a good match for someone who wears half-sizes in shoes. These shoes only come in full sizes but there are some issues with fit. Sizing up too much might cause fit issues for the arch support, but sizing down might mean your toes might be scrunched up.

What Other Camp Shoes Should You Consider?

If the Merrell Hydro Moc isn’t what you’re looking for, please browse our full list of the best camp shoes. 

Crocs Classic Clog Review: The Merrell shares similar design elements with this shoe, but this one is a bit easier to slip on, don’t blister that we’ve found, and have fewer customer complains of quality issues. 

KEEN Hyperport H2 Sandal Review: This supportive and cushioned water sandal is the one we recommend for water adventures that require multiple miles of walking or full day excursions. 

HOKA ORA Recovery 3 Slide Review: Though these aren’t necessarily water shoes (they dry quickly though), they offer support, pretty good traction, and an easy and comfortable fit.