• KEEN

KEEN Background and History

Keen is an American footwear and accessories company based in Portland, Oregon. It was founded in 2003 by Martin Keen and Rory Fuerst. The company's products are sold in retail locations throughout the domestic American market and also are distributed worldwide. The company is known for its philanthropic vision all over the world and has been making quality hiking boots for almost two decades now, gaining quite a reputation among outdoor enthusiasts.Since 2004, the company has donated over $18 million (plus countless volunteer hours) to various charitable organizations.

Keen Shoes began as a mutual love of sandals and sailing by Martin Keen who founded the brand. Keen had worked as a shoe designer for big names in the shoe industry like Saucony and Timberland.In 1999, Martin Keen developed the famous Newport Sandal in Jamestown, Rhode Island. KEEN manufactured its first sandals in 2003 with a black toe cap. Initially, KEEN sold sailing, water, and other outdoor activities footwear before diving into other varieties, such as safety work shoes, clothing, bags, and cold-weather footwear.KEEN has had its footwear factory in Portland, Oregon, since 2010, where it manufactures footwear with materials from all over the world.

In 2010, they introduced the Utility work boots to guarantee protection for many hard workers.And next, there are their hiking boots and shoes, much loved and raved about by enthusiasts of various types who push them to the limits on all kinds of terrains and trails in the USA and all over the world.Over the years, KEEN has been proactive in helping out during other natural disasters with monetary contributions and shoe donations. The company estimates that it donated over 25,000 pairs of shoes in 2018 alone.Today, KEEN creates shoes that are perfect for just about any outdoor activity. Along with shoes, boots, and sandals, Keen also produces hats, bags, socks, and other accessories, always with responsibility and transparency as some of their main values.

Materials and Manufacturing

As I mentioned above, Keen uses all kinds of globally-sourced materials to manufacture its sandals, shoes, and boots. Such materials include leather, mesh linings, rubber outsoles, PFC-free materials, and a waterproof membrane.The company also uses various technologies in making its footwear, such as KEEN.DRY,Keen.Regen,Keen.Warm Insulation,Keen.Polar Traction,Keen.Bellows Flex, and many others.

The technology used depends on the style and purpose of the shoes. For example:

• KEEN.DRY: It is very similar to Gore-Tex and other similar alternatives and consists of a membrane with a large number of microscopic holes that let water vapor out without letting water in.This way you get waterproof shoes that are also breathable.

• KEEN.Regen: This technology ensures your footwear has the best cushioning possible for optimum comfort that re-energizes you with every step you take.

• KEEN.Bellows Flex: The technology is to reduce the cracking at the top of the forefoot, making this area of the shoe more flexible and not-so-susceptible to bending and friction.

All of these proprietary features make Keen good hiking shoes.

Where to Buy KEEN Hiking Shoes？

KEEN Footwear (0.05% super cash back)

Moosejaw (6% super cash back)

Outland USA (3% super cash back)

Scheels (up to 5% super cash back)

Bass Pro Shops (up to 6% super cash back)

Amazon

Saving Tip:

If you like online shopping, don't forget to sign up at Extrabux！(What is Extrabux) , then you can enjoy up to 30+% cashback on your purchase from Extrabux! Sign-Up Bonus: Free to join it & get $20 welcome bonus! Student Benefits：As long as you are a student at school, you can get a free whole year long VIP Card worth $199.

Extrabux.com cooperates with many merchants, such as: Walmart (Up to 4% cashback), Sephora（4% -5% cash back)，Dior (Up to 6% cash back), Moosejaw (5% -6% cash back), LOOKFANTASTIC (Up to 10% cash back), Microsoft (Up to 7% cash back) and so on. You can save on buying daily necessities, fashion, beauty, electronic products, broadband installation, mobile communication, air tickets, hotels and other aspects of life!

Two Popular KEEN Hiking Shoes

#Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Price: $104.72 - $123.75 Original price:

The Keen Targhee II is a fantastic boot for a bargain price.This model is one of KEEN’s top sellers.It is one of my favorite hiking boots, delivering a lot of great attributes that any hiker can appreciate, whether new to the activity or a grizzled veteran of the trail. The mid-height cut protects our ankle from rolls and twists, and Keen's heel support structure cups the heel so we experience less slippage and blisters.Their big selling point is that they are waterproof but they are also lightweight and comfortable. 

The KEEN DRY waterproof, breathable membrane helps your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout the day by letting the vapor out without letting any water in. The KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole delivers a high-traction grip in every environment. The dual-density, compression-molded EVA midsoles cushion and absorb shock so we can return to the trailhead without achy feet. 

#KEEN Pyrenees Hiking Boot

Price: $134.96

The KEEN Pyrenees Hiking Boot is a trusty leather boot for long backpacking miles. Nubuck leather creates the upper and classic style, while a KEEN.Dry waterproof breathable membrane protects, so don't shy away from wet weather, mud, and yes, even the dusty trails. They're built for the tough trails, featuring 4mm lugs in a non-marking rubber outsole to grip with each and every step you take, be it on hard pack, rock, grass or mud. Let your feet enjoy the boots, pick your head up and enjoy the nature.

• Merrell 

Merrell Background and History

Merrell has been around a little longer than KEEN.Merrell was first founded by Clark Matis, Randy Merrell, and John Schweizer in 1981. As two executives of the Rossignol ski company Clark Matis and John Schweizer knew what was truly important when it came to quality outdoor boots.They applied a “no compromise” method to boot making by combining American cowboy boot technology and Italian manufacturing. Their original “wilderness boot” had thick leather soles that were designed to last a decade, quality leather, and Merrell’s signature blue laces which they still use today.

Although the brand was doing well, Merrell decided he preferred his life of customizing high-end boots and sold his share of the Merrell brand. Then the brand was completely sold to Karhu in 1987, a sports apparel company, which then sold the company to the Wolverine brand in 1997.Wolverine still owns the Merrell company today and has kept production moving in the right direction, keeping the Merrell name at the top of the industry.

Nowadays, Merrell’s footwear is still being manufactured from premium materials, just like in the early 1980s. But the brand now also designs and sells a number of other products, such as sandals, sneakers, and various accessories.Merrell continues to be one of the top brands recommended when it comes to affordable but high-quality footwear and clothing for adventures out in nature.They’re a comfort-focused brand with good prices and a committed following among day hikers and casual backpackers.

Materials and Manufacturing

Merrell shoes use top-quality, durable materials including, a full-grain leather upper that is water-resistant and strong, Italian metal hardware, and a slip-resistant, traction control Vibram rubber outsole.Also, just like its rivals, Merrell has developed a number of its own, proprietary technologies. These include M-Select Grip, M-Select Dry, M-Select Warm, M-Select Wind, M-Select Wick, and others.Merrell also uses GORE-TEX, a technology that provides state-of-the-art laminated membranes with waterproof sealing that’s meant to last in longer hikes and harsher weather conditions.

The company has several manufacturing facilities in the USA, the UK, China, Vietnam, and the Dominican Republic. All these facilities follow the same guidelines to guarantee the quality of products.The company is a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, using the Higg Index to track its manufacturing process and improve the practices that can help Merrell operate more sustainably.

Where to Buy Merrell Hiking Shoes？

Merrell

Amazon

Cabela's (up to 2% super cash back)

Walmart (up to 4% super cash back)

Backcountry (4% super cash back)

Two Popular Merrell Hiking Shoes

#Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Price: $145

The Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is a great boot for just about everyone. It is a perfect introductory boot for someone new to hiking but also can offer something for the seasoned adventurer with a great performance overall.What makes this boot so popular is its foot-friendly, comfortable feel and reliable trail chops at such a reasonable price. For $145, you get great cushioning underfoot and around the collar, trusty Vibram outsoles, and Merrell’s in-house waterproof membrane.

For the Moab 3 Mid, Merrell uses a new insole that promises greater support as well as a more cushioned midsole.There’s also a Super Rebound Compound in the heel for more cushion and stability by reducing torque so footsteps roll forward in a smoother motion.Hiking-minded touches include the protective toe cap and the molded nylon arch shank. The Moab 3 also has a bellows tongue to help keep out debris.The newest generation is the most environmentally friendly Moab ever, utilizing recycled materials in construction.

#Merrell Alverstone Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

Price: $84.73

The Alverstone shoes are another popular option.The Merrell Alverstone Mid Waterproof rugged build and effective waterproofing also scored plus points from consumers.It is a waterproof hiking boot for rugged trails.

These shoes are designed with a breathable mesh and suede upper that helps minimize dirt and debris. Full protection and all day comfort is delivered by a waterproof, breathable M Select DRY membrane hidden beneath a suede leather and mesh upper. They are equipped with M Select GRIP outsoles, with 5mm deep lugs. The outsole is very flexible and provides you with plenty of grip and traction even on wet terrain.Inside the shoes, you will get a Kinetic Fit insole by Merrell, which promises plenty of heel and arch support. But it is removable, which is perfect for all of you who need more support than usual, because of flat feet or high arches.There’s also the compression-molded EVA midsole and the nylon shank for superb stability. And the round toe cap will protect your feet from any obstructions on the path, while the bellows tongue keeps any debris out of the shoe.

• Salomon 

Salomon Background and History

Salomon is older than Keen, it has been founded in 1947 in Annecy, France.Salomon started out as a simple metalworking shop. Later, it ventured into the skiing business and started making cable bindings and steel edges for skis, using its knowledge and experience in metalworking.The skiing equipment was Salomon’s main focus all the way until the late 1970s when the company launched its very first footwear product – the SX90 ski boot.By the early nineties, Salomon ventured into manufacturing hiking boots.  Salomon launched their first hiking shoes in 1992, many years after the company’s foundation. After that, they launched trail running shoes, winter apparel, softshell jackets, along with many custom technologies.In 2005, the company was bought by Amer Sports, based in Helsinki, Finland. However, its headquarters remained where they always were – in France.

Nowadays, Salomon is among the biggest and most renowned brands of its type on the planet. Salomon’s shoes and other products cater to a variety of sports markets, such as hiking, trail running, adventure racing, climbing, snowboarding, and skiing in over 40 countries.As a brand that was founded by those who knew everything there is to know about cold-weather conditions and alpine sports, Salomon is undoubtedly a trustworthy brand. 

Materials and Manufacturing

Salomon uses different materials on their shoes depending on their specific use, and the footwear ranges in performance, from lightweight shoes for short hikes in dry weather, to waterproof boots that are comfortable for many hours of walking.Besides the fact that it uses various materials to produce footwear of the highest quality, Salomon also utilizes a number of innovative technologies. 

Like Merrell, Salomon also uses GORE-TEX to ensure extreme climate comfort. This waterproof membrane is windproof as well as breathable. Salomon not only uses this technology for their shoes but also for their clothes and gloves.Advanced Chassis and SensiFit which help improve the stability and fit, are two other important names among the several technologies and features of Salomon’s hiking shoes, along with the protective toecap and the gusseted tongue.Salomon uses their own innovation for waterproofing their shoes. ClimaSalomon is a trademarked design that guarantees flexibility and complete weather protection.Next, the OrthoLite insoles provide great cushioning along with durability and breathability, adding to the overall comfort of the boot.

The result of all these bells and whistles is the higher cost of Salomon’s footwear. It goes without saying that its shoes and boots are definitely worth the price, though. 

Where to Buy Salomon Hiking Shoes？

Salomon

REI

Amazon

L.L. Bean

Backcountry (4% super cash back)

Two Popular Salomon Hiking Shoes

#Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots

Price: $140

Salomon’s X Ultra has been one of popular hiking shoes for years, offering an exceptional combination of comfort, on-trail performance, and durability for everything from casual day hikes to ambitious overnight missions. 

It is as agile as a trail-running shoe but with all the stability, grip and waterproof protection you need to tackle technical terrain. Equipped with a new chassis, the shoe is even better at protecting sensitive articulations without compromising freedom of movement.Beyond its sleeker and more modern look, the X Ultra 4 features a revised lacing system and chassis, along with a roomier fit in the toe box. Importantly, the shoe retains the outgoing version’s fantastic mix of agility, support, durability, and protection, and there’s enough cushioning underfoot for full days with a loaded pack. For fast-moving day hikers, lightweight backpackers, and even thru-hikers, I heartily recommend the X Ultra 4 Mid.

#Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots

Price: $172.50 

Salomon’s Quest has garnered serious popularity over the years as a highly capable backpacking boot, and the fourth-generation model carries the torch. Salomon’s Quest is a step up from the X Ultra in stiffness, coverage, and overall protection but still plenty comfortable over long distances. The fourth generation of the line features a top-notch performance fit, aggressive stance, and one of our all-time favorite lacing systems—the eyelets at the base of the ankle do an excellent job locking your heel in place.  It’s ideal for demanding hikes and backpacking trips that feature steep climbs and descents and off-trail adventuring while carrying a full pack. No matter how tired you are or how heavy your pack, the QUEST 4 GORE-TEX ensures a stable yet smooth ride on any terrain.

• Oboz

Oboz Background and History

Established in 2008, Oboz got its name from a combination of two words – “outdoors” and “Bozeman” (the city in Montana where the company’s headquarters are). It was founded by John Connelly, who decided to give the company this name due to his love for the backcountry surrounding his hometown.With the city of Bozeman being completely surrounded by mountainous terrain, it is quite easy for Oboz’s employees to test-drive every shoe and boot they design in the best way possible. The people who work for this company are outdoorsmen, trekkers, runners, walkers, and much more. They create footwear that both their customers and they themselves can use, ensuring each pair’s safety, durability, and comfort.

In March 2018, after a decade of success, Oboz was bought by Kathmandu, a New Zealand-based outdoor products retailer.Even though it’s not an independent brand anymore, its HQ is still located in Bozeman, Montana.Besides its love for the outdoors, another exceptional aspect of Oboz is the fact that this brand supports a number of environmental initiatives. The two most important ones are One More Tree and Trees for the Future.In its 15 years of existence, Oboz has planted millions upon millions of new trees. With each passing year, the technology improves, and this brand keeps finding new ways to design and manufacture phenomenal trekking shoes while at the same time reducing its impact on the environment.

Materials and Manufacturing

Just like Salomon, Oboz also makes its footwear from all kinds of materials sourced from everywhere around the globe. Oboz uses an array of high-quality materials that look different, depending on the style of shoe. Each upper uses high-quality Nubuck, performance mesh, synthetic material, and other options to create the best performing products.

One of the brand’s most famous proprietary technologies is the O Fit insole. The insoles made with the help of this technology provide wearers with the best possible ankle and foot stability and support.To ensure neutral foot placement, each insole also features an Eva-Sculpted high-density arch.

Most of the company’s footwear is made in Vietnam. From there, the boots and shoes are shipped to California and then distributed to retailers everywhere around North America.The last thing worth mentioning here is that the company claims that all of its boots and shoes pass through the hands of over a hundred experienced employees before reaching the retail stores. In other words, high quality and finesse are guaranteed.

Where to Buy Oboz Hiking Shoes？

Oboz Footwear

Amazon

REI

Moosejaw (6% super cash back) 

Backcountry (4% super cash back)

Two Popular Oboz Hiking Shoes

#Oboz Bridger Mid B-Dry Hiking Boot

Price: $190

The Bridger Mid Waterproof has long been a serious hiker's favorite boot. They have a short break-in period, are amazingly comfortable in part thanks to its O-FIT insole, and are super durable. No matter the length of your planned journey, the Bridger Mid will keep your feet dry with the B-DRY waterproofing technology and the Granite Peak outsole with forefoot plate and rubber toe guard. 

Besides the well-known O Fit insole, which provides a perfect fit, this boot also sports a well-made midsole that promotes lateral stability. There is also a PU toe box that guarantees substantial toe protection and the Thinsulate insulation that works great even when damp or wet.

Although somewhat heavy and slow when compared to more modern (and more expensive) competitors, the Bridger Mid B-Dry boots are very sturdy and supportive for the price they come at.

#Oboz Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof

Price: $165

Tracking Sypes Canyon Trail dust back into town, the Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof delivers light-hiker performance with an ACT Intelligent PU midsole that belies its laid-back looks. REPREVE materials and algae biomass lighten the environmental impact, while deep lugs tame trails both dirt and paved.

“Nothing short of fantastic” is what you might call the Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof the moment you hit the trails in it. From its lavish confines to its rugged-ready performance, this Oboz kick spells happiness for your feet. While its resume is not dent-less, the boot’s many hits are enough to reel you in!

KEEN vs. Merrell vs. Salomon vs. Oboz: The Key Differences

1.Outsoles

KEEN - KEEN uses an unspecified outsole in their footwear, which gives you great traction and grip – in theory. In real life, the grip and traction are great and you’ll be happy with the outsole for the first few months, but you’ll be disappointed to see how quickly it wears out.Moreover, KEEN boots have the best non-marking outsole and you can wear them indoors with no mess.

Merrell - Merrell uses Vibram soles which are known for being long-lasting, durable, and providing excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.Vibram soles are generally one of the most rugged and durable soles that you find in footwear. So, if you want to get hiking shoes that will last you for a long, long time, definitely get a Merrell pair. But be sure to double-check that the outsole is in fact Vibram – they also use M-Select Grip outsole, but mostly in their sandals.

Salomon - Instead of partnering with a renowned manufacturer, Salomon created their own, called Contagrip.This material provides different controls on the grip and flawless performance depending on the design.The company also uses Contagrip Winter Grip outsoles for their winter technical footwear. While not as durable as Vibram soles, Contagrips provide unmatched traction on wet and dry ice.

Oboz - This brand’s boots come with different outsole designs to provide the proper traction, grip, and balance for every design.Because of their rigid structure and tough materials like nubuck leather, Oboz hiking shoes are famous for their durability.

2.Durability

All of the four brands offer durable footwear. But you will have different experiences wearing them.

KEEN -  KEEN focuses on protection and support. Its boots have a durable upper, rubber outsole, and well-crafted seams to handle challenging terrain.But Keen boots are dedicated to everyday and hiking so they are more prone to wear and tear.Moreover, the seams of Keen hiking boots may get fray.

Merrell - Merrell boots are powerful and have durability as an underlying factor. Merrell is more durable and will last longer compared to Keen shoes. Merrell has net seams with the best quality.

Salomon - Salomon shoes are known for their high-quality outdoor footwear, trail running shoes, and durable boots.

Oboz - Thanks to high-quality materials, like full-grain leather, Oboz hiking boots are long-lasting. You can use them on different terrains.Oboz is better for heavy-duty activities.

3.Breathability

KEEN -  The design, materials, and production process may all affect how breathable your hiking boots are.KEEN hiking boots with waterproof KEEN.DRY membranes will breathe better than those lacking.

Merrell - The Air Cushioning feature enables the hiking shoes to promote airflow and absorb shock. Its contoured insole, the Kinetic Fit, can also improve breathability.

Additionally, Merrell has teamed up with Vibram to produce outsoles with distinctive designs. They aim to speed up ventilation and reduce heat buildup.

Salomon - Their OrthoLite die-cut insole technology provides great cushioning to the foot, along with high breathability that makes this insole extremely comfortable.

Oboz - Oboz has an O Fit Insole designed to support and enhance breathability by encouraging airflow around your feet.Sawtooth Outsole is another fantastic technology used by Oboz. It features dual-density EVA midsoles and toothy outsole patterns, allowing for adequate air circulation.

4.The Footbed

KEEN - KEEN uses its own metatomical footbed, which comes in many different versions – low arch, medium arch, and high arch footbeds. And they are usually replaceable, so you can take out the one you get inside your shoes, and put it in the footbed that you want.

Merrell - Merrell hiking boots have a non-removable footbed and they use the Merrell M-Select FIT type of footbed for adding comfort under the feet,which is an EVA contoured footbed that provides good heel and arch support.

Salomon - Salomon’s engineers usually go with Ortholite footbeds.Ortholite footbeds are designed in a way so that they never change their shape inside hiking boots. The result of this is unmatched arch and heel support, as well as guaranteed longevity – your Ortholite insoles won’t wear off anytime soon.

Oboz - Oboz's anatomically-designed insoles maximize stability and support with a supportive arch and a deep cushioning heel cup. Triple-density EVA throughout provides both cushioning and durability, and cushioning pods under the metatarsals and heel adds extra protection to high-strike zones. 

5.Waterproofing

For a hiking boot, the water-resistance performance is a common concern.The four companies offer a huge selection of waterproof and water-resistant boots. It’s quite hard to decide which brand overpowers the other for waterproofing.Although boot boots are waterproof, the difference is in the technology that they use.

KEEN - KEEN has gained a lot of recognition with its KEEN.DRY membranes.It is a membrane that is used in their waterproof line of shoes that provides a waterproof outer layer while still giving that breathability effect.Plus, it is treated with Cleansport Odor Control that not only wick moisture from your foot, but also keeps the moisture out. 

Merrell - Merrell’s waterproof products feature M Select DRY technology, which connects a waterproof layer to the outside of the shoe upper. It also allows interior breathability, so your feet stay dry even in heavy downpours or when crossing shallow streams or puddles.

Salomon - They use Gore Tex membranes,a proven solution that’s present in shoes of many other footwear brands. Furthermore, they also use Climashield, a water-resistant (not waterproof) technology that they often pair with Gore Tex.

Oboz - Oboz is famous for its BDry waterproofing membranes. They work well for both the breathability and waterproofing of your shoes.Oboz’s proprietary waterproofing system consists of two layers: a waterproof membrane between the inner lining and outer shell that keeps wetness out; and hydrophobic coatings on all exposed seams to protect against external moisture penetration.

6.Price

KEEN - Keen can run anywhere from $100-$300. KEEN hiking boots cost more than Oboz products. However, the added features and better materials raise the price, which hikers believe is reasonable.That being said, KEEN does lean on the lower end of your wallet, lending more less expensive options in comparison to Oboz.

Merrell - Merrell hiking shoes range from $80 to $200.They’re definitely worth the price, and they come in different shapes and colors to work for every outdoor enthusiast.They’ll work for you if you need affordable hiking boots.

Salomon - Depending on the design and features of the hiking shoe, Salomon’s prices vary from around $90 up to $200.Plus,they offer chic design and trendy style that justify the price tag. 

Oboz - Most Oboz hiking boots are within the $100 and $200 price range. They’re designed for hikers and outdoor lovers who need comfort, support, and reliability because these boots are designed to last for long. I think they’re worth what you pay for them.

But, remember that the materials used, the technology employed, and the amount of support offered may all affect the price of your footwear.

7.Comfort 

Comfort is king when it comes to outdoor footwear that is going to put to the test week in and week out. Everything that you do in the outdoors should feel good, both mentally and physically. The four companies offer comfortable shoes that are fit for a wide variety of activities.However,it’s almost impossible to determine which brand is more comfortable than the other, because comfort is totally a personal matter. What feels comfortable to me may not be comfortable to you, because our feet are different.Many hikers appreciate the comfort that Oboz and KEEN offer.

Oboz is famous for its comfort and stability. The brand’s boots have a dual-density EVA footbed that cushions the foot and assists in weight distribution.Besides, the toe boxes of the Oboz boots are spacious, giving your toes plenty of space to move around. When hiking, this feature can help avoid blisters and other foot pain.

If you have really wide feet, then Keen products will be more comfortable to you. KEEN employs a patented footbed design that cradles your foot for all-day support and protects the arch.The brand also combines top-notch materials and a well-built design to minimize pressure areas on your feet.

One advantage of Merrell is that its shoes feature contoured footbeds to support your feet’s natural shape.Merrell also has excellent cushioning capabilities with its M Select cushioned footbeds that provide targeted support where you need it most. 

8.Size and Fit 

KEEN - They do run true to size. They are a little snug at first but very quickly conform to the feet.They are a bit limited on women’s sizes but they have them.This won’t take long. KEEN boots break in easily though the manufacturer recommends a leather conditioner to speed things up. Just wear your boots around the house for a little then gradually work your way up to walking around town. It won’t take long for them to feel comfortable enough for a hike.

Merrell - Most people consider Merrell shoes to be true to their size.They fit as they should and you shouldn’t have any issues with them size-wise.

Salomon - Salomon US sizes run true to size for a perfect fit right out of the box. No need to go up or down a size.Unless you have narrow feet, you might find that they feel a bit tight due to the form-fitting upper and arch support. 

Oboz - Oboz boots and shoes run true to size.You shouldn’t have any trouble getting them in your size. Most customers agree that although Oboz hiking shoes are stiff at first, they easily accommodate the feet and adjust accordingly after a short while. 

KEEN vs. Merrell vs. Salomon vs. Oboz – Which Brand is Best for You?

These four brands are two of the most popular hiking boots in the market today. They come with excellent functionalities and features. There is no saying who is the definite winner in this whole KEEN vs. Merrell vs. Salomon vs. Oboz situation. But their notable differences, as discussed above, will be the key when it comes to choosing the proper hiking boots for you.Some people have had better experience hiking wearing Keens, and some have had a blast sprinting in Merrells. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal choice and needs.

I think that Keen is a better choice when it comes to hiking shoes. This is because they take very little time to adjust to one’s feet and are generally more flexible than the ones offered by Oboz.

If you want affordable options but of a nice quality, then Merrell has you covered. Its footwear is renowned for its light weight and comfort, and the numerous technologies developed by the brand and used in its designs provide a great range of options.

When it comes to durability and eco-friendliness, I believe Oboz scores a bit higher. The company has also maintained its same vision since it was founded, which explains the consistency in its production.If you’re really serious about your outdoor adventures and often hike in truly extreme conditions, go with a pair of quality Oboz boots.This brand’s footwear is often very rigid, protective, and durable – just what you need to traverse genuinely difficult terrain during your multi-day hiking escapades in the backcountry.

No shoes available on today’s market are as feature-rich as the ones offered by Salomon. If you want your trekking shoes to be jam-packed and useful on pretty much all kinds of terrain, Salomon is a great option.

All in all, you won’t make a mistake by going with either of these brands – they have similar price ranges and are both well-known for making top-notch hiking footwear.

【Read More】

Merrell Moab 2 vs. Moab 3 vs. Alverstone: Differences and Reviews 2025

10 Best Websites to Buy Discount & Used Outdoor Gear 2025(Coupons + 10% Cashback)

Extrabux is an international cashback shopping site, offering up to 30% cashback from 10,000+ Stores!

24S, SSENSE, MATCHESFASHION.COM, Shopbop, NET-A-PORTER, FARFETCH, YOOX, Eastbay, End Clothing, Macys, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Saks OFF 5TH, Bergdorf Goodman, Selfridges, Bloomingdales, Coggles, Harrods, Kohl's, Urban Outfitters, ASOS, Missguided, etc.

Join to get $20 welcome bonus now! (How does Welcome Bonus work?)