Merrell Coldpack 3 Thermo Mid Waterproof Boot vs Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX

Both are insulated, waterproof winter hikers with about 200g of synthetic insulation, so warmth is close. The Merrell Coldpack 3 Thermo is the better pick for icy pavement and mixed town-to-trail use, because its Vibram Arctic Grip All Terrain outsole is built for wet ice. The Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX is the better pick for cold, wet mountain hiking, with a Gore-Tex liner, a PRESA HIK-05 outsole and a RECCO reflector. Owners of Arctic Grip soles report confident grip on slick ice; Scarpa's reputation is for stiff, supportive mountain boots.

• Choose the Merrell Coldpack 3 Thermo if you walk on icy sidewalks, driveways and packed trails and want a lighter, more flexible boot with proven wet-ice traction.
• Choose the Scarpa Moraine Polar GTX if you hike in cold, wet mountains and want a Gore-Tex liner, a stiffer supportive boot and a built-in RECCO reflector.