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Comparison Hiking Boots

Merrell Moab 3 vs Salomon X Ultra 4: Which Should You Buy?

Quick answer

Pick the Moab 3 for comfort out of the box and wide sizes; pick the X Ultra 4 for grip and agility on rocky trails.

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Buy

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

Best for most hikers

Typically $145–$160

Check Price on Amazon Paid link
Buy

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX

Best for rocky terrain

Typically $165–$190

Check Price on Amazon Paid link

Quick comparison

FeatureMerrell Moab 3 Mid WaterproofSalomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
VerdictBuyBuy
Typical price$145–$160$165–$190
Best forMost hikersRocky terrain
Key featureComfortable out of the boxAgile, grippy Gore-Tex boot
Where to buyCheck Price Paid linkCheck Price Paid link

Main differences

Comfort

Moab is comfortable from day one.

Grip

Salomon grips better on wet rock.

Fit

Moab is roomier; Salomon is narrow.

Weight

Salomon feels lighter and more agile.

Which should you choose?

Choose the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof if you

  • Want comfort fast
  • Have wide feet
  • Hike well-marked trails
Check Price Paid link

Choose the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX if you

  • Hike rocky terrain
  • Want an agile boot
  • Have narrow feet
Check Price Paid link

Which specifications matter?

Focus on the differences listed above rather than headline numbers. See our full list of the best hiking boots for men and women for more options.

Not sure about either? Consider these

KEEN · Hiking Boots

KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof

You have wide feet and want a roomy boot.

Verdict
Buy
Best for
Wide feet
Typical price
$165–$180

Pros

  • Roomy toe box
  • Supportive

Cons

  • Heavier

Columbia · Hiking Boots

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof

You want a waterproof boot for occasional hikes on a budget.

Verdict
Buy
Best for
Best value
Typical price
$80–$100

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Less durable

Frequently asked questions

Which is better, the Merrell Moab 3 or the Salomon X Ultra 4?

Pick the Moab 3 for comfort out of the box and wide sizes; pick the X Ultra 4 for grip and agility on rocky trails.

Which is better value?

The Merrell Moab 3 typically costs $145–$160; the Salomon X Ultra 4 typically costs $165–$190. The better value depends on which differences above matter to you.

Buyrskip Editorial Team

Part of the Buyrskip research team. We compare specifications, documentation and real-world trade-offs so you can decide faster.