Merrell Unisex-Child Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Durable, Dry

In this review the Merrell Unisex-Child Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe is presented as a dependable kids' hiker built for wet, rough trails. The bottom line: parents buying a sturdy, waterproof trail shoe for active children will appreciate the combination of a reinforced leather upper, a Bootie waterproof construction that keeps feet dry, and a rubber sole that grips varied terrain. The shoe's soft EVA midsole also trims weight so little hikers can move comfortably without wearing heavy boots.

Key Features

• Leather and mesh upper: combines breathability and durability so the shoe stands up to scrapes while allowing airflow on longer walks.
• Bootie waterproof construction: keeps feet dry in puddles and light rain so children can keep exploring without wet socks interrupting the day.
• Reinforced toe cap: protects toes from rocks and root strikes for more confidence on technical trails.
• Rubber sole with gripping lugs: provides essential traction on mud, loose dirt, and gravel for safer steps on varied surfaces.
• Soft EVA midsole: reduces weight and cushions every step to help small legs stay comfortable on multi-hour hikes.

Who It's For

The Moab 3 Mid is aimed at parents and caregivers who want a real hiking shoe for children rather than a casual sneaker. It works well for weekend trail hikes, park adventures, and family camping trips where water resistance and rugged construction matter. The waterproof lining and durable leather make it a practical choice for damp climates or spring and fall outings.

Families seeking a narrow, fashion-focused shoe or a very wide-fit option should look elsewhere, since some customers report mixed fit feedback around width and tongue length. Also, if a slip-on or ultra-light barefoot shoe is desired, the Moab 3 Mid's structured design may feel heavier and more protective than necessary.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable leather and reinforced toe cap stand up to rough use and protect growing feet.
• Bootie waterproof construction reliably keeps feet dry in wet conditions.
• Grippy rubber sole and lug pattern deliver confident traction off-road.
• Lightweight EVA construction reduces fatigue on longer walks.

Cons

• Fit can be mixed for some children: tongue length and perceived width may not suit every foot type.
• Lace tie mechanism received mixed feedback, so expect occasional fiddling to get an ideal fit.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is a sensible choice for parents who want a tough, water-resistant hiking shoe that still feels light on a child's foot. Its durable leather upper, reinforced toe, and grippy rubber sole make it excellent value for active kids and family outings, though shoppers should check fit details for children with especially wide feet or high insteps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes fully waterproof?
Yes, the Bootie waterproof construction is designed to keep feet dry in wet conditions and light rain.

Do they have good traction on trails?
Yes, the rubber sole with gripping lugs provides reliable traction on mud, gravel, and uneven terrain.

Should I size up for a growing child?
Sizing feedback is mixed; measure the child's foot and consider a half size up if you want extra room, but check tongue and width to ensure a good fit.