Hoka Skyward Laceless vs Merrell Jungle Moc
These are not really competitors. The Hoka Skyward Laceless is a running shoe with PEBA foam and stability features; the Merrell Jungle Moc is a casual leather slip-on for walking and errands. Buy the Hoka if you run or need stride support. Buy the Merrell if you want an easy everyday shoe that handles wet ground. The Merrell has ranged from $51.07 on November 2 to $79.67 on October 28; no current Hoka price was provided.
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Hoka Skyward Laceless
Choose the Hoka Skyward Laceless if you run or walk for exercise and want plush PEBA foam with stability that limits inward rolling, and you are fine with a snug laceless sock fit.
Pros
- PEBA foam gives a bouncy, plush ride
- Stability features help control inward rolling
- Stretchy laceless upper feels sock-like
- Light at 8.10 oz
- At least 20 percent recycled content
Cons
- Snug instep may not suit wide feet
- No laces means no fit adjustment
- Not built for wet or rough trails
- Road-focused outsole
What separates them
| Hoka Skyward Laceless | Merrell Jungle Moc | |
|---|---|---|
| Intended use | Running and athletic training | Casual everyday wear and walking |
| Cushioning | Plush PEBA foam, bouncy ride | Firmer EVA foam with Air Cushion heel |
| Stability | Neutral shoe with features to limit inward rolling | No stability guidance; decent arch support |
| Upper material | Stretchy knit, sock-like, laceless | Water-resistant pig suede with stretch gore |
| Wet and rough ground | Durabrasion rubber outsole, road-oriented | Sticky rubber outsole, slip resistant; buyers report poor grip on ice |
| Weight | 8.10 oz | About 13.22 oz per half pair |
| Fit | Snug instep; may not suit wide feet | Wide width available; fit varies by color |
Price history
$159.99$51.07
- Hoka Skyward Laceless: lowest $159.99 on Oct 28.
- Merrell Jungle Moc: lowest $51.07 on Nov 2 at Backcountry.com.
Prices at every store
Merrell Jungle Moc
- Academy Sports + OutdoorsCheck price at Academy Sports + Outdoors
- Backcountry.comCheck price at Backcountry.com
- DICK'S Sporting GoodsCheck price at DICK'S Sporting Goods
Specs compared
| Spec | Hoka Skyward Laceless | Merrell Jungle Moc |
|---|---|---|
| Lining | Polyester lining and textile insole with premiu… | Breathable mesh |
| Weight | 8.10 oz | — |
| Heel-To-Toe Drop | 6.00 mm | — |
| Midsole Foam | PEBA foam on top | — |
| Outsole Material | Durabrasion rubber | — |
| Closure Style | Slip-on | — |
| Stability | Neutral | — |
| Cushion | Plush | — |
| Recycled Content | minimum of 20 percent recycled content | — |
| Heel Counter | External heel counter | — |
| Pull Tab |
What reviewers say
Merrell Jungle Moc
With 4.6 out of 5 from about 4,000 ratings, the Jungle Moc is well liked for comfort, support and easy on/off. Long-term owners value its durability, but complaints about traction and slipping quality are common.
Pros
- Comfortable and supportive for all-day wear
- Easy to slip on and off
- Durable, with some pairs lasting many years
- Good fit for wide feet and decent arch support
Cons
- No traction on ice and wet hard surfaces
- Newer pairs feel tighter and stiffer than older ones
- Quality has declined compared to older versions
- Inconsistent fit between colors; sides can rub ankles
Questions and answers
- Which is better for running?
- The Hoka Skyward Laceless. It has PEBA foam cushioning and stability features built for running. The Merrell Jungle Moc is a casual walking shoe.
- Which is better for wet weather?
- The Merrell Jungle Moc. Its water-resistant pig suede sheds light moisture and liquids wipe off. Buyers still report slipping on ice and wet hard surfaces, so it is not a winter boot.
- Which lasts longer?
- The Merrell has the longer track record, with buyers reporting pairs lasting many years, though some say newer versions are less durable. Running shoes like the Hoka wear out faster with mileage.
- Is the Merrell worth the extra over its low?
- Its price has ranged from $51.07 on November 2 to $79.67 on October 28. Near the low it is a strong everyday value; near the high, wait or compare other stores.
- Which suits wide feet?
- The Merrell, which comes in wide widths, though buyers report fit differences between colors. The Hoka's snug instep may pinch wide feet.
- Can I use the Hoka as an everyday shoe?
- Yes, but the laceless knit upper and running outsole suit gym and road use better than wet or rough ground. The Merrell is the more casual everyday pick.