First Look: Merrell Moab Flight & HydroMoc

For the minimalist adventurer who won’t sacrifice performance, two of Merrell’s latest offerings make it easy to whittle your shoe quiver, whether on the road or at home, down to two. For workouts on the road or trail, grab the Moab Flight. For everything else, there’s the HydroMoc. 

The Moab Flight is a trail runner with the heart of a hiker. At a mere 460 grams, the featherweight Flight keeps runners nimble without sacrificing cushion. The generous 29 millimeter stack height in the heel with two insoles—one with EVA foam and another removable one made from PU foam—gives it a cloud-like feel underfoot and is designed to roll smoothly over rough terrain. Unlike other specialized trail shoes, a FloatPro midsole, made from a medium-density foam, is highly versatile, meaning it’s just as snappy on a paved training run as it is on a steep, rocky climb. 

Another point for versatility is the sturdy Vibram EcoStep outsole, which makes a rock guard obsolete. The three millimeter lugs are grippy on a variety of terrain, from granite to packed dirt to light snow. While the outsole is designed to tackle the trail, a woven mesh upper and inner line gives the shoe the feel of a road trainer.

 Finally, keeping in line with Merrell’s commitment to sustainability, the Moab Flight are vegan-friendly and the upper, liner, laces, insole, and outsole are all constructed from recycled materials. This significantly cuts its carbon footprint by reducing the energy and waste used in production. 

The HydroMoc takes the best features from other similar easy-on, easy off shoes and adds advanced construction and performance elements to make it the most versatile and durable of its kind. Made from a single piece of rubberized EVA foam, the HydroMoc is spongy and soft underfoot with large holes for water drainage and airflow to keep feet dry and comfortable. An upturned, closed toe box protects against rocks and other unseen obstacles, while an articulated heel and movable rubber strap provides a more secure fit that won’t slip off while wading through water. A two-millimeter lug depth makes the HydroMoc an expert at gripping slick surfaces, and a contoured arch provides comfort and support. Plus, at 14 ounces, or less than most water bottles, the HydroMocs are the perfect shoe to toss in a backpack and slip on when rock hopping across a river or to rest tired feet around the campfire after a day on the trail. Or, toss them in your car or gym bag to slip into instant post-run comfort and recover sore muscles. 

Available in a slew of both bright and muted colors, the HydroMoc traverses both the backcountry and around town—wear them when running errands, gardening, around camp, on the boat, or anywhere you need a comfortable, easy-to-clean shoe that will last a lifetime.