Merrell Women’s Salida Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Review

When it comes to hiking boots, I have no problem spending a little bit more time research just to get the perfect boots.

I was not wrong in this case either, since the Merrell boots became my perfect boots for the past year.

The most important thing about these boots is that they needed no break in period whatsoever and were comfortable from the very first wear.

I did went up half a size when ordering these boots but I’m not sorry as I can put on my thick, wool socks that way.

The boots give great traction and feel sturdy on every kind of surface.

They feel lightweight and are mid height to prevent water from getting inside them. Therefore, I am able to step around any puddles and my feet would remain nice and dry.

The boots keep my feet warm during wintertime.

I also like these boots as they give a good ankle, arch and heel support.

On my heavy-duty hikes I didn’t steer clear of the wet trails since these boot are non-slip, and do this job well.

I do have plantar fasciitis so having comfort from my hiking boots means a lot; these Merrell boots really eased up my problem.

I also like the style of these boots- women’s hiking boots should also look nice and cute, right?

The boots are well constructed, with many layers of materials and the stitching is reinforced.

The sole and the tread on the bottom is very thick and this is why I think these boots will be around for quite some time.

Even though the colors differ from the pictures (it might be from the monitor of my computer), the boots look nice and they don’t stain easily.

So, in fewer words, these are my pros:

• the boots are lightweight
• the comfort is great
• the boots are sturdy and give a good grip
• there is good ankle, arch and heel support
• the boots are waterproof (tested)
• they look very cute and nice

On the other hand, I had to change the insoles of these boots as I didn’t feel much support from the original ones.

The boots feel a little tight and the toe box is not very wide. So I guess these boots are not for wider feet.

I would like better arch support from these boots. The ankle, the heel feels right, but the arch could use more support.

I would also like these boots to have more cushioning. I think it would make a huge difference for comfort.

The laces are very stubborn… they keep getting untied, no matter how tight I knot them… So, for the money you pay, you would expect better quality for the laces.

After some thought, I do think that my feet get a little too hot in the summer- so the boots could be made more breathable.

My short list of “cons”:

• the arch support could be better
• they could be wider and the toe box could also be wider
• the laces need to be of higher quality
• the breathability of these boots is not that great
• even though I shell generous chunks of money on hiking boots, these boots may be considered pricey (as all Merrell boots are…)

I still tell my friends these are the best boots ever as I take them out hiking no matter how hot/cold/rocky/wet/long my hike gets… 🙂