Reliability score
Compared side by side
Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX vs Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Reliability scores
Reliability score
Scores compared
Pulled from each product’s full review.
- Reliability
- 79 / 100
- 76 / 100
- Estimated 3-year upkeep Parts and repairs, rough estimate
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Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX
Calibrating maintenance feedback
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Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Calibrating maintenance feedback
Pros and cons
Good and bad, as each full review tells it.
Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX
Strengths
- Exceptional out-of-the-box comfort with no break-in period
- Available in wide sizes, appreciated by owners with wider feet
- Suitable for various terrains and everyday use
- Some owners report good waterproofing in rain and snow
Concerns
- Inconsistent waterproofing, with many reports of leaks after a year or less
- Soles are too flexible for demanding rocky or scrambling terrain, leading to foot soreness
- Synthetic lining can develop an unpleasant odor even with clean feet
- Some Merrell shoes have durability concerns with toes peeling away from the sole
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Strengths
- Excellent grip and traction reported on various terrains
- Generally lightweight, continuing a popular trait of the X Ultra line
- Provides good stability and ankle support for some users
- Suitable for daily wear and shorter hikes for those who find the fit comfortable
Concerns
- Reported to be very narrow, causing fit issues and discomfort for some users
- Ankle area can feel stiff and cause rubbing for certain foot shapes
- Durability concerns, including membrane wear and sole detachment, carried over from previous generations
- Effectiveness of Gore-Tex waterproofing is questioned by some owners, with feet still getting wet
The verdict
Our bottom line after lining up both full reviews.
Bottom line
For all-around comfort on less technical trails, the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX is often preferred, but the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX offers a more structured, potentially better-fitting option for those tackling challenging terrain.
Key takeaways
- Choose the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX for immediate comfort and a roomier feel suitable for general hiking and daily wear.
- Consider the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX if you prefer a narrower, stiffer shoe that offers more precise foot control on technical trails.
- Both models have received feedback about inconsistent waterproofing performance over time, which is a key consideration for GTX footwear.
Performance
Owners report the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX delivers outstanding comfort right out of the box, making it easy to wear for daily activities and general hiking. However, its waterproofing can be inconsistent, and the sole may feel too flexible on very challenging terrain. The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX, on the other hand, provides a stiffer, more structured feel, which some users prefer for stability on technical trails. Its performance is often tied to how well the fit works for individual foot shapes.
Durability
The Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX generally holds up well for its intended use, but some owners report that its Gore-Tex waterproofing can fail prematurely. While the overall construction is solid, the inconsistent waterproofing is a repeated concern. For the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX, owner feedback addresses its durability in terms of its overall construction holding up over time, but specific longevity issues like the upper material or sole separation aren't prominent complaints. Both shoes are from reputable brands, so a reasonable lifespan is expected, provided specific fit issues don't lead to early wear points.
Community sentiment
The Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX receives high praise for its immediate comfort, with many calling it a go-to for everyday wear. Users appreciate not needing a break-in period. Conversely, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX draws mixed comments regarding its fit, with frequent mentions of it being narrow and having a stiff ankle. While some hikers value this snug, supportive feel, others find it uncomfortable or restrictive, especially compared to earlier X Ultra models. The waterproofing effectiveness is a point of contention for both models among owners.
Key differences
Where the two products differ on the same everyday points owners care about.
Initial Comfort
Better here: Merrell Moab 3 Low GTXMerrell Moab 3 Low GTX
Owners consistently praise the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX for its exceptional out-of-the-box comfort, feeling good from the first wear.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX often feels stiff and requires a break-in period, with some users reporting initial discomfort, especially around the ankle.
Fit Profile
Better here: Merrell Moab 3 Low GTXMerrell Moab 3 Low GTX
The Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX generally offers a wider and more forgiving fit, accommodating various foot shapes.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is known for its narrower fit and firmer structure, which can feel restrictive for those with wider feet.
Waterproofing Consistency
Even matchMerrell Moab 3 Low GTX
Despite being a GTX model, some owners experience notable inconsistencies with the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX's waterproofing performance.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
While generally effective, owner feedback for the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX also includes reports of varying waterproofing effectiveness over time.
Sole Flexibility
Better here: Salomon X Ultra 5 GTXMerrell Moab 3 Low GTX
The Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX has a more flexible sole, offering good ground feel and comfort for light trails.
Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
The Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX features a stiffer sole, providing more stability and support for technical and uneven terrain.
The compromise
What you give up when you pick one over the other.
If you choose Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX
If you opt for the Merrell Moab 3 Low GTX, you might sacrifice some of the precise support and stability needed for very rocky or demanding trails. You also take a chance on its waterproofing not being as reliable as you might expect from a GTX boot. For prolonged exposure to wet conditions, its inconsistent water resistance could be a drawback.
If you choose Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX
Choosing the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX means you might give up the immediate, plush comfort that many hikers desire straight out of the box. Its narrower, stiffer fit might not be comfortable for all foot types, potentially leading to hot spots or rubbing. This could mean a longer break-in period or simply not being the right shoe for your feet.