Merrell Hydro Moc Assessment | CleverHiker

Backside Line

The Merrell Hydro Moc is just like the Crocs Traditional Clog however with higher help. That’s why we’ve added it to our newest checklist of one of the best camp sneakers.

It is a light-weight, aerated, and versatile water shoe constituted of a water-resistant EVA foam. We love how the insole meets the arch of our foot and the way it seems like our foot can sink into the shoe. They really feel extra supportive than the Crocs however lower than the KEEN Hyperport H2 Sandal. Regardless, the shoe felt safe, particularly with how the articulated heel match round our ankle . . . till we began strolling round. 

This shoe loses factors with us for its lackluster match. One of many first issues we observed was the heel arising and down as we walked. After a few mile or so, we started to really feel the beginnings of a heel blister. The second factor we observed was our toes scrunching up and hitting the highest of the shoe. We have been delay by the rubbing and match problems with the shoe.

These have been extra snug when sporting socks. If this water shoe suits you, it could possibly be a camp shoe for moist and dry situations.

How We Examined

We examined this water shoe on a journey day which included informal strolling, carrying heavy suitcases, and standing for lengthy stretches. We additionally examined this by taking it on a flat, two-mile stroll on blended surfaces together with pavement, dust, grass, gravel, and water. Lastly, we carried out assessments within the workplace for help and sturdiness.

COMFORT

We thought that the Merrell Hydro Moc would fee larger for consolation, however we discovered match points we couldn’t overlook. Our large toe was squished to the highest of the shoe. We might advocate going up a half measurement, however consumer opinions complain in regards to the arch being within the flawed spot after sizing up. Once we have been testing, the arch help hit our foot accurately, so we’d be hesitant to measurement up. 

One other situation was rubbing on the ankle. These Mocs are usually not made to be worn with socks, however even with socks on, we felt rubbing as we packed the automotive up for camp. We additionally felt the heel shifting up and down throughout our testing. 

Apart from that, the match is absolutely snug. The shoe has a large toe field that enables toes to unfold out and wiggle. It suits nicely across the again. 

We have been additionally shocked at how simple this shoe is to slide on. They could look tight and laborious to slip into, however the foam materials is versatile. They don’t slip on just like the OOfos OOriginal, but it surely simply takes a few fingers to slide into the heel strap.

VERSATILITY

This water shoe tries to go above its meant use to adapt to tough terrain and added miles. Nevertheless, we weren’t too impressed with its efficiency on land. The heel straps secured the mocs to our toes, however we felt the necessity to put on socks for consolation if we did any actual strolling. Whereas testing, we walked via moist grass after which over a packed dust path. This lined the sneakers in dust, and we might really feel the dust between our toes. The underside didn’t present nice traction, both –– its traction was inferior to the Aquagrip on the KEEN Hyperport H2 Sandal. 

These sneakers are fairly mild at 12.3 ounces – although not as mild because the Crocs Traditional Clogs. They have been mild sufficient to pack for backpacking. Total, although, we most well-liked them as water sneakers over different makes use of.

SUPPORT

Once we first slipped the Hydro Moc on, its sole appeared to hug our toes and elevate up our drained arches. 

We additionally carried out the bend, twist, squeeze take a look at on these sneakers to check the help. By inserting the toe on the bottom and urgent down on the heel, we examined stability by seeing the place the moc bent. The Merrell handed this take a look at – the toe field folded however the sole remained stable. 

Subsequent, we twisted it –– taking the heel in a single hand and the toe within the different then pushing in reverse instructions –– we are able to see how steady and supportive it was. The Hydro Moc resisted twisting, displaying that it’s fairly supportive. 

Lastly, by taking the heel within the hand and squeezing, we are able to take a look at the help behind the shoe. Once more, the shoe ought to resist motion. This shoe handed this take a look at as nicely. 

DURABILITY

The Hydro Moc is a sturdy shoe. From its supplies to our testing, we discovered virtually no complaints of how these sneakers maintain up over time. 

The Hydro Moc’s uppers are constituted of EVA foam, which is a copolymer that takes on the traits of plastic and rubber. It’s a fabric that provides wonderful flexibility and nonetheless snaps again into place. The rest of the shoe is constituted of BLOOM efficiency foam, which is a proprietary foam made partly from algae. This materials mimics plastic, together with its sturdiness. 

We discovered no points with sturdiness after our outside testing of this shoe. Though some buyer opinions complained of high quality, mentioning that not solely are these modified from older fashions however that the soles didn’t maintain up over time.

Ought to You Purchase the Merrell Hydro Moc?

The Merrell Hydro Moc could also be a very good possibility for somebody who’s in search of a extra steady model of a Crocs Traditional Clogs. The heel help retains the foot in place even when strolling rapidly or leaping round. 

These sneakers in all probability wouldn’t be a very good match for somebody who wears half-sizes in sneakers. These sneakers solely are available in full sizes however there are some points with match. Sizing up an excessive amount of may trigger match points for the arch help, however sizing down may imply your toes is likely to be scrunched up.

What Different Camp Footwear Ought to You Contemplate?

If the Merrell Hydro Moc isn’t what you’re in search of, please browse our full checklist of the finest camp sneakers. 

Crocs Traditional Clog Assessment: The Merrell shares related design parts with this shoe, however this one is a bit simpler to slide on, don’t blister that we’ve discovered, and have fewer buyer complains of high quality points. 

KEEN Hyperport H2 Sandal Assessment: This supportive and cushioned water sandal is the one we advocate for water adventures that require a number of miles of strolling or full day excursions. 

HOKA ORA Restoration 3 Slide Assessment: Although these aren’t essentially water sneakers (they dry rapidly although), they provide help, fairly good traction, and a straightforward and comfy match.