Merrell vs Salomon walking boots

Fit and feel

Merrell's best-known walking boot, the Moab, is famous for comfort from the first wear. The fit is generally roomy, especially in the forefoot, and the cushioning is soft. Merrell also sells Wide versions of popular models; the Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX Wide listing describes a roomy fit.

Salomon boots usually fit snugger and more like a running shoe, with a close heel and a precise midfoot. Many walkers love that locked-in feel; those with wide feet often find Salomon tight. Salomon's Quest boots are the most supportive in its range, with the X Ultra lighter and nimbler.

If you have narrow or average feet, try both. If you have wide feet, Merrell's Wide models are often easier to fit, and our walking boots for wide feet guide has more options.

Four models side by side

The table compares two Merrell boots and two Salomon boots using the amazon.co.uk listings. Listings for both brands contain some conflicting fields, which are noted.

Where each brand fits UK walking

Merrell's Moab family suits lowland walks, country paths, travel and easy hill days. The soft cushioning is comfortable on hard tracks, and the roomy fit suits many feet. On rough, rocky ground and long descents with a pack, a softer boot can feel less stable than a stiffer one.

Salomon's Quest boots are built for longer days and rougher ground, with a higher cut and more structure. The X Ultra Mid and Cross Hike suit faster walkers on good paths. Our Salomon hiking boots compared guide sets six models side by side.

For wet British moorland, both brands rely on Gore-Tex membranes and synthetic or suede uppers rather than thick leather, so reproof them regularly and expect them to dry faster but last less long than heavy leather boots.

See Salomon boots compared →

Durability and care

Both brands use light materials, foam midsoles and glued construction, which keep weight down and comfort up but mean the boots are not usually resoled. Expect to replace them when the sole or midsole wears out. Cleaning off mud, drying slowly and reproofing the upper extends their life; see how to clean walking boots.

If long life is your priority, look at leather boots from makers such as Lowa, Meindl or Scarpa, compared in our best leather walking boots guide.

Sizing and ordering online

Both brands list UK sizes on amazon.co.uk, and both also show US and EU sizes on their own charts. Merrell, as an American brand, often bases its sizing on US sizes, so check that the size you pick is the UK one. Salomon uses its own conversion chart, and many walkers find its boots true to length but narrow.

Measure your feet in the evening with your walking socks on, leave about a thumb's width of room at the toe and use our boot size converter as a starting point. If you order two sizes to compare, wear them indoors only, so you can return the pair that does not fit.

Which to choose

Choose Merrell if comfort from day one, a roomy fit and soft cushioning matter most, and you walk mainly on paths and lowland routes. Choose Salomon if you like a snug, athletic fit, walk faster or longer days in the hills, or want the more supportive Quest boots for a pack.

Read are Merrell walking boots any good for a closer look at Merrell's range.

Frequently asked questions

Are Merrell boots wider than Salomon? Generally, yes. Merrell's fit is roomier and it sells Wide versions; Salomon is usually snugger.

Are Merrell walking boots waterproof? Models with GTX or Waterproof in the name have a membrane. Check the listing for each model.

Which is better for hill walking? Salomon's Quest boots are built for longer, rougher days. Merrell's Moab suits easier hill paths.

Do Salomon boots need breaking in? Very little, like most fabric and synthetic boots. A few short walks still help.