Merrell Moab 3 GTX Gore-Tex Waterproof Suede Hiking Shoes Men Ember

The Merrell Moab 3 GTX Ember are men's hiking shoes with a suede and mesh upper, Gore-Tex membrane, Vibram sole and protective toe cap, made for walking safely with dry feet. We selected them at Calzados Vesga because they are one of the most reliable choices for anyone who wants a mountain shoe that is comfortable from the first day.

Technical Specifications

The hiking shoe that does everything well

The Moab range is a classic of accessible hiking: a low-cut shoe that needs no long break-in, protects the foot and works as well on a weekend trail as in town on a rainy day. The third generation adds a Gore-Tex membrane in this GTX model, so you can cross a shallow stream, walk on wet grass or sit out a shower without water getting in.

The membrane sits between the outer and the lining, so it adds neither bulk nor stiffness. Being breathable, it lets perspiration vapour out and avoids the soaked-foot feeling of lower-quality waterproof footwear.

It is a very sensible choice if you want one versatile shoe: for walking, travelling, dog walks and easy to moderate routes.

Design and style: grey Ember with coral details

Ember combines a stone-grey suede with a darker mesh and coral touches on the side ribbons, the rear strap and the logo. It is a restrained finish that hides dust and mud, yet with a colour detail that sets it apart from a fully neutral model.

The side design of wavy suede strips over mesh is typical of the series: it adds midfoot support and lets air through. The collar is padded, the tongue wraps the instep and a rear tab lets you pull them on without forcing the heel.

The silhouette is sporty and low, and works with technical trousers as well as with jeans. A mountain shoe that does not look out of place in everyday life.

Materials and finish

The upper combines cowhide suede, abrasion-resistant and pleasant to the touch, with textile mesh that lightens the whole and aids ventilation. The lining is textile and breathable, and the interior is cushioned to improve comfort and shock absorption.

The Gore-Tex membrane is the key technical component. Its pores are far smaller than a water droplet but larger than a water vapour molecule: liquid water stays out while perspiration can escape. That is why the shoe is waterproof without feeling stuffy.

The sole is Vibram rubber, a benchmark for mountain grip, with deep lugs that clear mud and bite into loose ground. The rubber toe cap protects the toes and the reinforced stitching extends the life of the shoe.

Everyday comfort

A comfortable hiking shoe must cushion, hold and stay light. This one weighs little for what it offers, the midsole absorbs impact on descents and hard ground, and the laces let you adjust the instep and ankle to the terrain.

The padding on the collar and tongue prevents rubbing, and the standard fit leaves room at the toes for long descents, when the foot tends to slide forward.

A practical tip: for long routes or with thick hiking socks, try half a size up. With thin socks or for urban use, your usual size will be right.

When to wear them

It is a shoe for day hikes, mid-mountain routes, country walks, travel and everyday use in autumn and winter. It also works as a work shoe for anyone who spends long hours on their feet outdoors.

It is not a high-mountain boot and is not meant for deep snow or crampons. For technical routes with a lot of climbing or heavy packs, a high-shaft boot gives more ankle support, but for the great majority of popular hikes it covers every need.

How to style them

With trekking trousers or technical leggings and a light jacket, it is the basic kit for a day in the hills. With dark jeans or chinos, it gives a practical, casual look for the city. With merino wool socks, it improves moisture and temperature control.

Grey Ember with coral details goes well with navy, olive green, black, beige and earth tones; a dark waterproof jacket completes a coherent outdoor outfit.

Size guide

The model comes in EU 41 to 46, including 43.5, with a standard fit: neither especially small nor especially large. If you are between two sizes, choose the larger one, above all if you have a high instep, a wide foot or plan to wear thick socks; in hiking it pays to leave a little room at the front for descents.

Approximate UK equivalents: EU 41 is about UK 7, EU 42 about UK 8, EU 43 about UK 9, EU 44 about UK 10, EU 45 about UK 10.5 and EU 46 about UK 11.5. These are indicative only and vary between makers, so refer to the brand's size chart. With laces you can tune the pressure precisely, but the inner length is fixed: between two sizes, the larger one with firm lacing usually works best.

Care and maintenance

• Remove dry mud with a soft bristle brush and clean with a damp cloth, without running water.
• Let the pair dry at room temperature with newspaper inside, away from radiators or direct heat.
• Brush the suede in the direction of the nap and apply a specific protector from time to time, without covering the mesh.
• Do not use solvents or a washing machine, which damage the suede, the bonding and the membrane.

With these basic steps, the shoe keeps its look and the membrane keeps performing for many seasons.

Our verdict at Calzados Vesga

We think it is a very solid buy for anyone who wants a versatile, waterproof hiking shoe. Its main strength is that it combines things that rarely come together: immediate comfort, a Gore-Tex membrane, a Vibram sole and a balanced price. Its limit is that of any low shoe: it does not shield the ankle from deep water nor give the support of a boot on very technical ground.

About the Merrell brand

Merrell is an American brand specialising in outdoor footwear, known for comfortable, accessible hiking shoes and boots, of which the Moab series is one of the most popular. See more options in our men's Gore-Tex shoes section or in the men's hiking and outdoor shoes category.

Frequently asked questions

Are they really waterproof?

Yes. They have a Gore-Tex membrane, which blocks liquid water and lets perspiration vapour out. It protects the foot from rain, puddles and wet grass, although they are not meant to be submerged above the collar.

Do these run small?

No, they follow a standard fit. Order your usual size and go up half a size if you have wide feet or wear thick socks.

Are they comfortable all day?

Yes. The midsole cushions, the collar and tongue are padded and they weigh little. They are comfortable from the first day, without a long break-in.

Can I use them for hiking?

Yes. They are made for day hikes and mid-mountain routes, with a Vibram sole and protective toe cap. For high mountains or deep snow, a boot is better.

How do I clean them?

With a soft brush and a damp cloth, no running water or washing machine. Let them dry in the air, away from radiators.

Can I wear them in town?

Yes. The grey colour with coral details and the low silhouette suit everyday wear, especially on rainy days.

What size should I choose with wide feet?

Half a size above your usual. The laces let you loosen the instep, but a membrane shoe should be roomy across the width of the foot.

Delivery, returns and secure checkout

Delivery anywhere in Europe takes 4 to 6 working days. Shipping is charged by destination country and calculated at checkout. Returns from outside Spain are at the customer's expense. Payment is secure, and an experienced member of the team answers any sizing question before you order.

Why buy from Calzados Vesga

We are a family shoe shop on the main square of Burgos, northern Spain, with over fifty years behind the counter. We work with a curated selection of brands rather than an endless catalogue, and we know each model because we try it and sell it in our shop. Before and after purchase you deal with a real person.

Are these your shoes?

Yes, if you want a waterproof, comfortable, versatile hiking shoe with good grip. Perhaps not, if you need a tall-shaft boot for high mountains, deep snow or heavy loads.

If you want a mountain shoe for everyday use and easy hikes that copes with rain, the Merrell Moab 3 GTX Ember are a safe choice, available now at calzadosvesga.com.