Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof vs KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Boots

The Keen Targhee III is the safer pick for most hikers: its KEEN.DRY membrane has a stronger track record for staying waterproof, and the KEEN.PROTECT toe bumper shrugs off rock strikes. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid is lighter-feeling underfoot with its Air Cushion heel and Vibram TC5+ outsole, and owners widely call it comfortable straight out of the box. Both are leather-and-mesh mid boots with removable footbeds; the Moab's weak point is waterproofing that reviewers say fades after a few months, while the Targhee runs warmer and a touch heavier per shoe.

• Choose the Merrell Moab 3 Mid if you want instant out-of-box comfort, a cushioned heel and a proven Vibram sole for mostly dry three-season day hikes.
• Choose the Keen Targhee III if wet trails, stream crossings and rocky ground are routine and you want waterproofing and toe protection that hold up.