Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 Review: The Trail-Tested Verdict on an Icon

There’s a familiar ritual for anyone who loves the great outdoors: the cautious, often painful, process of breaking in a new pair of hiking shoes. I’ve spent weeks, sometimes months, shuffling around the house, going on short walks, and enduring the inevitable blisters, all in the hope that my rigid new footwear would eventually mould to my feet. The fear of embarking on a long-awaited trek with shoes that feel more like instruments of torture than tools of exploration is real. It can turn a beautiful day on the trail into a miserable ordeal. This quest for a shoe that delivers comfort straight out of the box, without sacrificing the rugged durability and grip needed for unpredictable terrain, is what led me to revisit a legend in the hiking world: the Merrell Moab series, specifically the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2. It’s a shoe with a formidable reputation, but does it truly eliminate the break-in period and stand up to the rigours of the trail? We decided to find out.

What to Consider Before Buying Hiking Footwear

A men’s hiking shoe is more than just an item of footwear; it’s a key solution for comfort, safety, and performance on any unpaved surface. It’s the critical interface between you and the ground, designed to protect your feet from rocks and roots, provide stability on uneven surfaces, and offer grip in wet or loose conditions. The main benefits are injury prevention, reduced fatigue over long distances, and the confidence to tackle more challenging terrain. Without proper hiking shoes, you risk everything from simple blisters and sore arches to more severe issues like rolled ankles and painful slips or falls. The right pair becomes an extension of your body, allowing you to focus on the journey, not your feet.

The ideal customer for a product like this is someone who regularly walks on trails, from local country parks to more demanding mountain paths. They value a balance of support, comfort, and traction. This includes day hikers, dog walkers who venture off-pavement, and even outdoor professionals who spend long hours on their feet. However, this type of shoe might not be suitable for those who primarily need an urban walking shoe, as the aggressive tread can wear down quickly on concrete and may feel overly stiff. It’s also not the right choice for serious mountaineers, who would require a much stiffer boot with crampon compatibility. For urban explorers, a comfortable trainer or smart casual shoe might be a better fit, while mountaineers should look at specialized alpine boots.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Fit & Sizing: This is the single most important factor. A shoe that is too small will cause bruised toes and blisters, while one that is too large will allow your foot to slide, leading to instability and friction. Always try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and wear the type of socks you’d typically hike in. Pay attention not just to length but also to width, as many brands, including Merrell, offer wider-fit options for those who need them.
• Traction & Performance: The outsole is where the rubber meets the trail. Look for deep, aggressive lugs that can bite into soft ground like mud and dirt. The pattern of the lugs is also important for shedding debris and providing braking power on descents. The rubber compound itself determines the grip on wet surfaces; renowned brands like Vibram are often used for their proven performance and durability, a key feature of the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 which you can inspect closer here.
• Materials & Durability: Hiking shoes typically use a combination of materials to balance durability, weight, and breathability. Full-grain leather is extremely durable and water-resistant but can be heavy and require a break-in period. Split-grain leather, often combined with mesh (like in the Granite V2), offers better breathability. Fully synthetic uppers are lighter and break in faster but may offer less durability than leather counterparts. Consider if you need a waterproof membrane like Gore-Tex, which keeps feet dry but can reduce breathability in hot weather.
• Support & Cushioning: The shoe’s construction determines how well it supports your feet and protects you from impact. The midsole, typically made of EVA or polyurethane, provides cushioning. A stiffer shoe with a shank (a supportive insert between the midsole and outsole) offers more support on rocky terrain but can feel less comfortable on flat paths. The ankle-shaft height provides support against rolling; low-cut shoes offer flexibility, while mid-cut boots provide more stability.

Choosing the right footwear is paramount, whether you’re scaling a hill or navigating the city streets. The demands of each environment are unique.

While the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 is an excellent choice for the trail, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition and understand what footwear works best for different settings. For a broader look at top models for less rugged, more urban adventures, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2

Opening the box, the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 immediately presents itself as a capable and well-thought-out piece of kit. The “Granite” colourway is classic and earthy, blending pigskin leather with breathable mesh panels in a way that looks both traditional and functional. The shoe feels substantial in hand without being excessively heavy; at a listed 950g for the pair, it hits a sweet spot between lightweight agility and reassuring robustness. The first thing I noticed was the quality of the materials. The leather feels supple, and the mesh sections are tightly woven. Running a hand over the shoe, the construction feels solid, with a formidable protective toe cap that promises to ward off accidental impacts with rocks and roots.

A key feature mentioned on the packaging, and one we appreciate, is the use of recycled materials. The laces, webbing, and mesh lining are all 100% recycled, a commendable step towards sustainability that doesn’t seem to compromise quality. Slipping them on for the first time is where the Moab legend truly begins to make sense. The famous “out-of-the-box comfort” isn’t just marketing hype. The interior is well-padded, especially around the ankle collar and the bellows tongue, which is cleverly designed to keep annoying trail debris from sneaking in. The initial fit felt snug but not restrictive, cradling the heel while giving my toes ample room to wiggle—a crucial aspect for preventing discomfort on long descents. It felt less like a stiff, new hiking shoe and more like a trusted pair I’d already owned for months. You can see its full feature set and design details here.

A Deep Dive into the Merrell Granite V2’s Performance

A shoe’s true character is only revealed on the trail. First impressions and specifications are one thing, but performance under pressure—on steep inclines, slick descents, and over miles of varied terrain—is the ultimate test. We put the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 through its paces across different environments, from damp woodland trails to rocky coastal paths, to see if its reputation for all-around excellence holds up.

The Legendary Comfort and Fit: Put to the Test

Merrell’s core promise with the Moab line has always been instant comfort, and our experience overwhelmingly validates this claim. From the very first walk, the Granite V2 felt remarkably forgiving. The updated, more cushioned midsole and supportive insole work in harmony to absorb shock effectively, reducing fatigue in the feet and joints. We intentionally wore them for a 10-mile hike without any prior break-in, a risky move with most new footwear, and finished with zero hotspots or blisters. The interior padding and well-designed heel cup lock the foot in place, preventing the internal slipping that causes friction. This was confirmed by one long-term user who stated they’ve “bought these Moab’s three times over the years” and praised their comfort and support through “years of abuse.”

However, getting the fit right is paramount, and this is where we encountered a significant caveat echoed in many user experiences. We found the sizing to be slightly on the small side. I typically wear a UK 10, and while the length was adequate, it felt snug, especially with thicker hiking socks. One user provided excellent advice: “check sizing because they run small,” noting that Merrell’s sizing chart can differ from standard conversions and recommending going a half-size up. This is particularly crucial if you opt for a waterproof Gore-Tex version, which can have a slightly less voluminous interior. For those with broader feet, the availability of a wide fit is a game-changer. As one reviewer enthusiastically put it, “If you’re like me and and need wide shoes these are the real deal. Didn’t need to use inserts to stretch them at all.” Our recommendation is to carefully measure your feet and consider ordering a half-size larger than your usual shoe size to ensure the perfect fit and fully enjoy the comfort this shoe is famous for.

Traction on Trial: The Vibram TC5 Outsole Advantage

A comfortable shoe is useless if it can’t keep you upright. The foundation of any good hiking shoe is its outsole, and the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 employs one of the best in the business: the Vibram TC5. This specific rubber compound is engineered to provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces, and our testing proved its mettle. On a trail slick with morning dew and damp leaves, the 5mm lugs dug in confidently, preventing any unnerving slips. We scrambled over wet granite boulders on a coastal path, and the sole’s sticky nature provided a secure purchase that inspired confidence with every step.

The lug pattern is intelligently designed, with multi-directional shapes that provide grip during ascents and act as a reliable brake on steep, loose descents. This level of performance is a key reason for the Moab’s enduring popularity. One user praised the “grip of the shoe on the trail” during a challenging hiking trip with steep 40-45° angles. However, it’s worth noting that the sole’s design prioritizes trail performance. A couple of users mentioned the sole feeling hard or thin, with one stating, “Even with insoles, the bottom is very hard.” We interpret this not as a flaw, but as a characteristic of a true hiking shoe. It provides excellent ground-feel and stability on uneven terrain, a trade-off for the plush, bouncy feel of a road-running trainer. For its intended purpose, the Vibram sole is a standout feature that performs exceptionally well.

The Durability Dilemma: A Question of Quality Control?

Here we arrive at the most complex and concerning aspect of the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2. While the shoe is built with high-quality components like pigskin leather and a Vibram sole, we found a troubling and consistent pattern of user feedback regarding its long-term durability and manufacturing quality. Our test pair held up perfectly during our evaluation period, with no signs of premature wear. The protective toe cap did its job admirably, deflecting scrapes, and the bellows tongue was flawless in keeping out grit.

However, we cannot in good conscience ignore the chorus of voices reporting significant issues after relatively short periods of use. Multiple users reported the exact same problem: sole delamination. One stated, “After 2 weeks of very light use… sole is starting to come away,” while another was more blunt: “Wore for 1 month and the sole is falling apart.” Another common complaint involves the interior lining, with a user noting that after nine months of everyday use, “all the lining has worn away at the back of heel.” Other reports mention torn rubber on the front of the boot, seams coming undone, and visible excess glue, prompting one person to ask if their pair was “refurbished.” This suggests a potential inconsistency in quality control during the manufacturing process. While many users, like the one who has used them “almost daily” for over a year, find them impressively durable, the risk of receiving a sub-par pair seems higher than it should be for a product at this price point. It’s a significant gamble, and while the performance is excellent when they hold together, prospective buyers should be aware of this widely-reported potential for premature failure before deciding if the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 is the right investment for them.

What Other Users Are Saying

Synthesizing the wider user experience provides a clear, albeit polarized, picture of the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2. On the positive side, the overwhelming sentiment praises the shoe’s immediate comfort and lightweight feel. One happy customer, a first-time Merrell buyer, was unequivocal: “The shoes are exceptionally lightweight. I will now begin recommending this model and brand to everyone.” Another long-time fan who has been wearing them for a year confirms they are “very comfortable shoes” that have “held-up very well.” The effectiveness of the fit, especially for those needing wide sizes, is another frequently celebrated attribute.

Conversely, the negative feedback is strikingly consistent and centers almost exclusively on durability and quality control. The issue of the sole separating from the upper is the most common and serious complaint. One user’s concise review, “The sole is falling off. Joke!”, encapsulates the frustration felt by many. Another detailed how the “rubber has torn off on the front of the boot” after only about seven days’ worth of hiking. These reports, often from users who are on their second or third pair and have noticed a decline in quality over the years, suggest that while the design is excellent, the execution can be flawed. This feedback is critical for setting realistic expectations: you may get a fantastic, long-lasting pair, or you may experience frustrating quality issues within months. Interested buyers should check recent user reviews to gauge current quality trends.

How Does the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 Compare to the Competition?

No product exists in a vacuum. While the Merrell Moab has a legendary status, several strong competitors offer different strengths that might appeal to different users. Here’s how the Granite V2 stacks up against three popular alternatives.

1. Grisport Men’s Dartmoor Hiking Shoes

The Grisport Dartmoor represents a more traditional approach to walking shoe design. Often crafted in Italy, it typically features a more robust, full-leather upper. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize maximum durability and weather protection over lightweight agility. The Dartmoor is generally heavier than the Merrell Granite V2 and will almost certainly require a more significant break-in period. However, for users who are hard on their footwear or frequently walk in wet, boggy conditions, the sturdier build and materials of the Grisport may offer superior long-term performance and longevity, making it a better option for a classic rambler over a fast-paced trail hiker.

2. XPETI Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots

The XPETI hiking boot often targets the budget-conscious consumer who still wants modern features like waterproofing and aggressive styling. Unlike the Merrell’s leather-and-mesh construction, XPETI boots frequently use fully synthetic uppers, which contributes to their lighter weight and typically lower price point. They often provide a higher, mid-ankle cut for additional support. While they offer good value and decent performance for casual hiking, they generally can’t match the premium feel of the Merrell’s materials or the proven, top-tier grip of a Vibram outsole. A user looking for an affordable, waterproof option for occasional hikes might prefer the XPETI, while those who hike regularly would benefit from investing in the Merrell’s superior components.

3. Karrimor Mount Low Mens Waterproof Walking Shoes

Karrimor is a well-known name in the UK outdoor market, often positioned as a direct competitor to Merrell but at a more accessible price. The Karrimor Mount Low is a workhorse shoe designed for general-purpose walking. It typically features its own proprietary waterproofing (“Weathertite”) and outsole technology. While it provides reliable performance for dog walking and gentle trail use, it generally lacks the refined fit, superior cushioning, and elite-level traction of the Merrell Granite V2. The primary reason to choose the Karrimor would be budget. For hikers who want the best possible comfort and grip and are willing to pay a premium for it, the Merrell remains the superior choice.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 Worth It?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 is one of qualified recommendation. There is no denying its strengths: the out-of-the-box comfort is truly exceptional and lives up to the legendary reputation, the Vibram outsole provides tenacious grip on a wide variety of surfaces, and the overall design is both breathable and protective. When you get a good pair, it is easily one of the best all-around hiking shoes on the market for day hikes and general trail walking.

However, the significant and consistent user complaints regarding durability and quality control cannot be overlooked. The risk of sole separation or premature wear is real and represents a considerable gamble. Therefore, we recommend the Merrell Men’s Hiking Shoe Granite V2 to casual or moderate hikers who prioritize immediate comfort and top-tier traction above all else, and who may not be subjecting the shoe to extreme, high-mileage abuse. If you value a pain-free experience right from the start and are prepared for the possibility of a shorter lifespan, this shoe is an excellent choice. For those seeking bombproof, long-term durability for relentless use, exploring alternatives like the Grisport Dartmoor might be a wiser investment. If you believe the legendary comfort and performance align with your needs, you can check the latest price and secure your pair here.

Last update on 2025-10-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API