Merrell’s Are Shoes to Take From Peak to Pavement (& Back!)
In one of the few chicken or egg dilemmas that actually has an answer, Merrell belongs to the first and few brands that'd pioneer a look of shoe that's both as appropriate (and desirable) for casual wear as it is for functional performance use.
Derived from its Moab hiking model, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 is a lighter version of the famed trail shoes, once more combining a handsome sneaker silhouette with the robust and rugged qualities of a mountaineer's boot.
With summer winding down, we figured there's no better time than the present to get into footwear that shields from the winds and rains of fall, without dragging down the rest of your outfit.
Because unlike some of the other gorpcore-era creations that only look as though they can do heavy lifting, Merrell's Moab Speed 2 actually delivers on its promises of aesthetic utilitarianism.
Merrell's Moab Speed 2 Is a Literal Trail Blazer:
The Advanced
Bundled in GORE-TEX, this special issue of the titular shoe is an absolute beast. Its toothy Vibram sole provides the ultimate grip, while the upper textile makes it impenetrable to cold water.
The Classic
Seeing that the aforementioned might be more than the average outdoorsy city dweller'd need on a daily basis, the toned-down style of this shoe is a hiking and walking shoe, but great for everyday wear just as well.
Its lugged foundation is just as surefooted, but its breathable mesh fabric make it a good choice for more of an athleisure style of life (and clothes), similar also to its SpeedARC Matis sibling.
The Final Boss
Don't be mistaken though, Merrell can just as easily set you up with a proper boot as they can a hybrid sneaker, and the GORE-TEX-clad Moab Speed 2 Mid Asphalt is here to prove it. Sturdy as the rocks you'll be climbing, these babies are all about the ascent.
Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase. Want to shop the products our editors actually love? Visit the HS Style Guide for recs on all things fashion, footwear, and beauty.
