Compromised breathability due to the waterproof design; with a waterproof low-top shoe, you have to be really careful not to let moisture enter in from the collar. Over the last few years, the growth of this style of hiking has brought with it the development of purpose-built footwear, essentially hybrids between a walking boot and a running shoe. For fast hiking, you want something that’s light but still supportive and sturdy, you want something that’s grippy but not too overbearing and you want something that’s waterproof but also breathable too. Case in point: the Merrell MQM 3 Gore-tex.

The upper is constructed with a weatherproof Gore-Tex membrane for superior and lightweight weatherproof protection that's also fully breathable. No matter where the trail leads, the MQM 3 GTX keeps feet dry. The laces are also made from 100% recycled nylon for an earth-friendly design. They’re fully waterproof, which is great unless you step in a puddle deeper than the Merrell MQM 3 GTX, in which case the water will be trapped inside the shoe until you pour it out (Image credit: Merrell) A stable yet comfortable shoe with hiking shoe-like cushion alongside the features of an approach shoe (to-the-toe lacing, climbing zone on outsole, snug fit). For an all-purpose shoe, the MQM 3’s Vibram sole is very impressive (Image credit: Jonathan Manning) MidfootIt took less than a fortnight for the waterproof coating – which turned dew into beads that rolled off the shoe – to wear off. Weeks later, however, the Gore-Tex membrane remains undefeated in the battle with wet grass, while the billows that run down either side of the tongue have stopped annoying grit and sand from finding their way into the shoe. When I first took the Merrell MQM 3 Gore-Tex out of the box, I was not thrilled: The shoe looked rigid and unforgiving. I even held it by its heel and toe and gave it a push, only to confirm my suspicions that the MQM 3’s sole was indeed stiff. Having just returned from a four-day climbing trip in the Chaltén Massif, my feet were swollen and sore; I was not excited to force them into any hiking shoe—no less a hiking shoe that moonlights as an approach shoe. So I delayed, wore a cushy trail runner-inspired hiking shoe for our first day hike, and then donned the MQM 3. To lower the overall Co2 footprint of the MQM 3 Gore-tex, Merrell have sourced recycled plastics instead of relying on virgin plastics across the whole shoe. The mesh lining on the inside, for instance, is made from 100% recycled post-consumer plastics, so too are the laces and the sections of webbing. The removable EVA footbed uses 50% recycled materials. Arguably the most impressive element of the MQM 3 is the Vibram sole, made exclusively for Merrell. It grips well on gravel trails and fire roads, and copes admirably with mud, expelling it from its 5mm lugs to maintain a decent foothold in gloopy conditions.

The protective toe cap offers extra durability to protect feet against debris. The 100% recycled mesh lining feels incredibly comfortable and the EVA foam insole and midsole provide impeccable support across a variety of terrains and ensure a lightweight ride that lasts a lifetime.As with all waterproof footwear, the MQM 3 Gore-Tex is not perfectly breathable—the same membrane that serves to keep water out also aids in keeping moisture in. For this reason, I don’t recommend the MQM 3 for hot and dry hiking. In comfortable summer conditions—even in areas with a lot of stream crossings—most will appreciate the better versatility and temperature control of a non-waterproof shoe. But for the cold conditions we experienced in Patagonia, I was grateful to have the MQM 3 Gore-Tex’s added protection and warmth. And for help with the inevitable stink of a waterproof shoe, the Merrell is treated with Cleansport NXT, a non-toxic probiotic treatment that kills the bacteria that cause odors. For more help choosing the right footwear, see our article: Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Shoes? Most hikers will find the MQM 3 too stiff for their needs; a more flexible, cushioned shoe will be a better fit for most terrain. The upper is thin but made from durable materials and there’s padding where you need it, including on the tongue and around the heel. TPU overlays give a bit of added protection to the walls of the shoe, particularly around the toe. The Gore-tex membrane extends throughout the upper and links with the tongue via gussets, so there’s all-round waterproof protection. The Sole

Additionally, the slip-resistant Vibram® TC5+ sole unit provides amazing traction no matter where the adventure leads.