Merrell Moab vs Salomon X Ultra vs Lowa Renegade: Hiking Boot Comparison

These three mids cover 80% of the boot questions I get: forgiving beginner fit, agile trail pace, or premium long-term support. None is a mountaineering boot — all are waterproof mids for multi-day hiking and hut treks on mixed European terrain.

For rocky hut routes where I want approach-shoe agility, my default is La Sportiva TXS GTX — not a mid boot, but the footwear category I pack on routes like Alta Via 1.

Also read: Best hiking boots for men · La Sportiva TXS GTX review · Merrell Moab 2 (previous generation)

Quick verdict

Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP — best for beginners

Moab 3 is Merrell's current waterproof mid (Moab 2 is the previous generation) — wide toe box, Vibram outsole familiarity, and shop availability that makes sizing straightforward. Not the lightest or stiffest boot here, but the lowest-friction path to a reliable first pair for muddy forest trails and moderate hut routes.

Choose Moab 3 if: you want one dependable waterproof mid without a specialist fitting session, or you need extra forefoot width.

Skip it if: you want a sportier, narrower last for fast rocky cols — Salomon fits differently. Already own broken-in Moab 2? You do not need to upgrade until they wear out.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX — best agile mid

X Ultra 4 Mid is the light, responsive pick — Contagrip traction and a sportier last for hikers who move quickly on mixed terrain. Less traditional bulk than Moab or Renegade; stronger on rocky cols where agility matters more than maximum ankle stiffness.

Choose X Ultra if: you prioritise pace and trail feel on varied terrain with a moderate pack.

Skip it if: you need maximum long-term leather durability or a very wide toe box — try Moab 3 or Keen instead.

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid — best durability

Renegade GTX Mid is the premium support answer — stiffer chassis, Gore-Tex lining, and the boot I recommend for long European hut routes when hikers want traditional mid construction that lasts seasons. Higher price and break-in than Moab, but more boot underfoot on rough descents with a full pack.

Choose Renegade if: you want premium mid support and durability on week-long routes with real descent mileage.

Skip it if: you are optimising for minimum weight and soft trail feel — X Ultra is lighter and sportier.

Bottom line

Moab 3 for accessible comfort, X Ultra for agile trail hikers, Renegade for premium long-week support, TXS GTX when rocky agility beats mid-boot bulk. Try all three with hiking socks if you can — boot fit beats brand loyalty every time on day three of a trek.