Is it truly waterproof?

Yes. It uses a Merrell DRY membrane plus a full-grain leather and suede upper, so rain and puddles stay out. Water can still enter over the ankle collar in deep crossings.

How does it compare with the Merrell Moab?

The Speed Solo MXD Mid is lighter and more flexible, with a sleeker leather look. The Moab offers more cushioning and a wider, roomier fit for heavier loads.

Is it good for backpacking?

For light overnight packs, yes. For heavy multi-day loads the sole is thin and the ankle support modest, so a stiffer boot suits better.

Does it need breaking in?

Most owners report little or no break-in. The leather upper softens quickly, though a few narrow-footed buyers need a week of short walks.

What is the weight per pair?

About 1 lb. 14 oz. for the pair, which is light for a leather mid-cut hiker.

How should I care for the leather?

Clean off mud and reapply a leather conditioner or waterproofing treatment a few times a season to keep the upper supple and water-resistant.

What do buyers say about the Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots?

Rated 4.2 out of 5 from 24 ratings.

Where can I buy the Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots?

2 stores we checked sell it, including Scheels, REI.

Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Best price now

$96.73at REIChecked 22 h ago

Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit REI

Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Best price now

$96.73at REIChecked 22 h ago

Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit REI

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Price facts

Last seen at $96.73 at REI on Nov 9.
Checked at 2 stores.

Our take on the Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

The Speed Solo MXD Mid is Merrell's leather-and-suede mid-cut hiker, built on FloatPro foam with a Vibram Ecostep recycled rubber outsole and a Merrell DRY waterproof membrane. At about 1 lb. 14 oz. per pair it is light for a leather boot, closer to a fast day hiker than a stiff backpacking boot. It suits day hikes, wet trails and casual winter wear rather than heavy loads or long multi-day trips. Against Merrell's own Moab line it trades some cushioning and durability for less weight and a more modern look.

Best forDay hikes and short overnight tripsWet, muddy trails and light snowHikers who want leather looks without heavy weightCasual wear in cold or damp weather

Pros

Light for a leather mid boot at under 2 lb. per pair
Merrell DRY membrane keeps feet dry in rain and puddles
Vibram Ecostep outsole grips well on rock and packed dirt
FloatPro midsole gives a soft, flexible ride out of the box
Leather and suede upper looks good off the trail
Recycled materials in the lining and outsole

Cons

Thin underfoot protection on sharp rocks
Not stiff enough for heavy packs or multi-day loads
Ankle support is modest for a mid boot
Leather upper needs care to stay waterproof over time
Limited break-in complaints aside, fit runs narrow for some

Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots prices at every store

REINew
In stock
$96.73Checked 22 h ago
Visit REI
ScheelsNew
In stock
$160.00Free shippingChecked 22 h ago
Visit Scheels

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Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots price history

Lowest price we've seen: $96.73 on Nov 10 at REI. Tracked across 2 stores since Nov 10.

What reviewers say

4.2 / 524 ratings

Owners rate it around 4.2 out of 5, praising the light weight, out-of-the-box comfort and reliable waterproofing. Criticism centers on thin cushioning underfoot and modest support for rough or loaded hiking.

What people mention

WeightPraisedOwners say the pair feels light on the foot for a leather mid boot.
WaterproofingPraisedReviewers report dry feet through rain, wet grass and shallow puddles.
Underfoot cushioningCriticisedSome find the sole thin and feel rocks through it on rough trails.
Ankle supportMixedThe mid cut helps, but several say support is modest for a boot.
FitMixedMost are happy with the fit, though some narrow-footed and wide-footed buyers disagree.

Specifications

Footwear Height: Over-the-ankle
Footwear Closure: Lace-up
Waterproof: Yes
Type Of Waterproofing: Merrell DRY waterproof membrane
Upper: Waterproof full-grain leather and suede
Lining: Recycled mesh
Midsole: FloatPro foam

Questions and answers

Is it truly waterproof?: Yes. It uses a Merrell DRY membrane plus a full-grain leather and suede upper, so rain and puddles stay out. Water can still enter over the ankle collar in deep crossings.
How does it compare with the Merrell Moab?: The Speed Solo MXD Mid is lighter and more flexible, with a sleeker leather look. The Moab offers more cushioning and a wider, roomier fit for heavier loads.
Is it good for backpacking?: For light overnight packs, yes. For heavy multi-day loads the sole is thin and the ankle support modest, so a stiffer boot suits better.
Does it need breaking in?: Most owners report little or no break-in. The leather upper softens quickly, though a few narrow-footed buyers need a week of short walks.
What is the weight per pair?: About 1 lb. 14 oz. for the pair, which is light for a leather mid-cut hiker.
How should I care for the leather?: Clean off mud and reapply a leather conditioner or waterproofing treatment a few times a season to keep the upper supple and water-resistant.
Where is the Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots cheapest?: At REI, for $96.73, as of our latest check.
What do buyers say about the Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots?: Rated 4.2 out of 5 from 24 ratings.
Where can I buy the Merrell Speed Solo MXD Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots?: 2 stores we checked sell it, including Scheels, REI.