Two brands stand out in the outdoor gear industry: Keen and Merrell.
In this article, we’ll compare the Keen Men’s Pyrenees Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots, both of which are designed to tackle challenging terrains while providing comfort and support.
The Keen Pyrenees boasts a classic all-leather design combined with modern waterproof technology, making it ideal for long days on the trail.
The Merrell Moab 3 is celebrated for its rugged construction and superior traction, perfect for those who navigate unpredictable landscapes.
We’ll explore the features, benefits, and distinctions of these two exceptional hiking boots to help you decide for your next adventure!
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1. Keen Men’s Pyrenees Waterproof Hiking Boot
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Description:
The Keen Men’s Pyrenees Waterproof Hiking Boot is a classic all-leather European hiking boot enhanced with modern waterproof and breathable technology. Designed to keep feet dry and comfortable during long trail days, this boot features an original fit with a contoured heel lock and generous space across the forefoot.
Main Features and Materials:
- Original Fit with generous space across the forefoot
- Contoured Heel Lock for a secure fit
- KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
- KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole for high-traction grip
- KEEN.PROTECT Toe Bumper
- Environmentally Preferred Leather
- Eco Anti-Odor technology
- Weight: 21.69oz / 615g
- Shaft Height: 4.96in / 126mm
- Heel Height: 1.38in / 35mm
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0.59in / 15mm
- Speed hooks for easy lace adjustment
- Foam midsole for lightweight cushioning
- Removable, resilient foam insole for long-lasting cushioning
- 4mm multi-directional lugs for traction
- Heel-capture system for added stability
- External stability shank for lightweight stability
- Waterproof premium leather upper
- Non-marking rubber outsole
- Includes an extra set of laces
2. Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
CHECK IT OUT AT: Official website – Amazon.com (#ad)
Description:
The Merrell Men’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are designed for rugged trails with frequent changes in speed, direction, and elevation. These all-terrain boots provide excellent ankle support and comfort, making them the perfect companion for challenging outdoor adventures.
Main Features and Materials:
- Waterproof membrane for dry feet in all conditions
- Mid-height design for additional ankle support
- Exclusive Moab 3 footbed contours to your foot for a more comfortable stride
- Vibram TC5+ outsole for optimal traction and performance on any terrain
- Merrell Air Cushion for maximum shock absorption
- Protective rubber heel and toe cap for worry-free strides
- Made with 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining for eco-friendliness
3. Comparison
Here are the main differences between these two shoes:
- Material and Design:
- Keen Pyrenees: Classic all-leather European hiking boots with modern waterproof/breathable technology.
- Merrell Moab 3: Made with a combination of recycled materials and features a waterproof membrane.
- Waterproofing:
- Keen Pyrenees: KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane.
- Merrell Moab 3: Waterproof membrane for dry feet in all conditions.
- Outsole:
- Keen Pyrenees: KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs for traction.
- Merrell Moab 3: Vibram TC5+ outsole for optimal traction and performance on any terrain.
- Fit and Comfort:
- Keen Pyrenees: Original Fit with generous space across the forefoot, contoured heel lock, removable foam insole, and foam midsole.
- Merrell Moab 3: Moab 3 footbed that contours to your foot, Merrell Air Cushion for shock absorption, and mid-height design for ankle support.
- Weight:
- Keen Pyrenees: 21.69oz / 615g.
- Merrell Moab 3: Not specified.
- Environmental Considerations:
- Keen Pyrenees: Environmentally Preferred Leather, Eco Anti-Odor.
- Merrell Moab 3: Made with 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining.
- Additional Features:
- Keen Pyrenees: Speed hooks for easy lace adjustment, heel-capture system, external stability shank, KEEN.PROTECT Toe Bumper, extra set of laces.
- Merrell Moab 3: Protective rubber heel and toe cap, designed for rugged trails with frequent speed, direction, and vertical changes.
4. Which is Better?
When deciding between the Keen Pyrenees Waterproof and the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Boots, it’s essential to consider the specific conditions for your hiking adventures.
The Keen Pyrenees is a classic all-leather European hiking boot designed with modern waterproof and breathable technology. It excels in keeping feet dry and comfortable during long trail days.
The boot’s KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane and KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provide excellent traction and moisture protection, making it ideal for extended hikes in wet conditions. Also, the generous space across the forefoot allows for toes to splay, enhancing comfort over long distances.
The foam midsole and removable resilient foam insole offer long-lasting cushioning, which is beneficial for hikers seeking comfort and support on prolonged treks. The heel-capture system and external stability shank add to its stability, making it suitable for uneven terrains.
On the other hand, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid is known as one of the best hiking boots in the world for a reason. It is designed for rugged trails with lots of obstacles and heavy debris.
The Vibram TC5+ outsole ensures optimal traction and performance on any terrain, while the Merrell Air Cushion provides maximum shock absorption, making it a great choice for trails with frequent speed, direction, and vertical changes.
The mid-height design offers additional ankle support, which is crucial for maintaining stability on rugged paths. The Moab 3 also features a waterproof membrane to keep feet dry, and its eco-friendly construction with 100% recycled materials adds an environmental benefit.
In conclusion: if you are planning long hikes in wet conditions and prioritize comfort over extended distances with a classic leather design, the Keen Pyrenees is the better choice.
But. If you frequently tackle rugged, obstacle-laden trails and need superior shock absorption and traction, the Merrell Moab 3 is the optimal option.