Merrell is the creator of some of the most popular hiking boots being sold today. They are high-quality and durable boots that come in various configurations for various tastes and uses.
The Merrel Moab line comes in Gore-Tex and waterproof materials. The waterproofing of the non-Gore-Tex Moab models is achieved by using Merrell’s Select Dry technology. But how does the Select Dry technology compared to the Gore-Tex Moab? This is the question that we are going to answer here.
Merrell Moab Gore-Tex vs Waterproof
Is the Select Dry Moab Really Waterproof?
The Select Dry membrane of the Moab was specifically designed to allow for the release of internal moisture. This is great if you are going to be going on hikes on hot days and need your feet to remain cool.
This membrane blocks precipitation and wind to keep your feet comfortable. You can go out on a rainy day and expect your feet to remain relatively dryer than a regular shoe. However, the Select Dry Moab boot was not designed to be submerged in water.
If you want to go through creeks and rivers, don’t expect your feet to remain dry with the select dry version. Keep in mind that the benefit of going with Select Dry rather than the Gore-Tex is the fact that it has more breathability.
Is Gore-Tex Better?
The Gore-Tex membrane of the Moab is strategically placed on the inside of the boot. Many hiking boots feature a waterproof material on the outside, which tends to wear down after while. Once the materials are worn down, they are no longer waterproof.
With the Moab Gore-Tex boot, you get a waterproof membrane that does not deteriorate with heavy usage. This Gore-Tex boot is made to allow you to walk through rivers without getting your feet soaked.
The disadvantage to wearing a Gore-Tex boot is the fact that it is not very breathable. If you are traveling through some hot weather and your feet get sweaty, it will be difficult for them last year to escape through the membrane. This is why your feet were made warm.
Waterproof Construction
Both of these hiking boots have a bellowed tongue. This tongue is sewn into the sides of the boot to help prevent water from passing through. This means that even with the Select Dry version, you can rest assured that rain will not get through your boots.
A bellowed tongue is especially important when it comes to Gore-Tex boots. You can walk through a creek with water up to the ankle without getting wet because nothing will get past the tongue portion or the Gore-Tex membrane.
Merrell Moab Gore-Tex vs Waterproof: Price Comparison
As is the case with most hiking boots, the Gore-Tex version of the Moab is a bit more expensive then the traditional waterproof Moab. In order to view current prices and compare the Gore-Tex Moab to the Select Dry Moab, please see below:
Merrell Moab Gore-Tex vs Waterproof: The Verdict
Which of these Moab boots you choose will depend on the amount of waterproofing you actually need. If you expect to be going through a lot of hot weather, but don’t expect to be walking in rivers, the Select Dry Moab boot would be best for you. It has better ventilation and will keep you cooler. It will also protect your feet against precipitation and keep them dry.
If you are expecting to be walking through creeks and puddles, then we would not recommend doing so with the regular waterproof Moab. Choose the Gore-Tex Moab for complete waterproofing in these cases.
If you have any questions concerning the difference between the Waterproof Moab and the Gore-Tex Moab, please leave us your question below in the comments.