Keen and Merrell hiking boot brands are among the best brands that produce top-tier footwear. I have always preferred KEEN or Merrell boots for their best waterproofing, comfort, fitting and supportive grip during dangerous hiking.
However,
The main difference between Keen and Merrell's hiking boots is the design and overall build. Keen boots offer stylish and modern details whereas the Merrell boots are more subtle, sober, and look professional. Also, Keen boots are reasonably priced while Merrell boots are somewhat expensive, though you can opt for sales.
Comparison Between Merrell vs Keen Hiking Boots
| Features | Keen Hiking Boots | Merrell Hiking Boots |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Style/design | More stylish and trendy and features modern details on the boot | Somewhat less stylish and offer a sober appearance and feels bulky |
| Waterproofing performance | Somewhat less stylish and offer a sober appearance, and feels bulky | Perfect waterproofing for keeping feet dry and warm |
| Traction and grip on grounds | High traction and grip (unspecified technology) | Durable and resilient Vibram sole for stronger grip |
| Footbed | Merrell M-Select FIT and the footbed are not removable. Have fewer types of the footbed | It can be a little bit pricey |
| Outsole/midsole | Features non-marking outsole with multidirectional lugs and insole | Vibrant outsoles, dual-density molded midsoles |
| Price | Affordable in price with a diverse range in their boot range | It uses a waterproof membrane and leather for multiple outdoor activities |
| Weight | Feels lightweight | A little bit heavier on the feet |
| Brand | Keen was founded in the early 2000s | Merrell was founded in 1981 |
| Durability | The threads may fray and wear out quicker | Neat seams are powerful and durable |
| Best for | Wider feet shape | Feel a bit tighter |
| Durability and boot longevity | There are more likely to get wear and tear from everyday use | Merrell hiking boots are excellent for durability and quality |
| Arch support | No arch support | Optimal arch support |
| Best Choices | Check Best Keen Boots | Check Best Merrell Boots |
Pros and Cons of Keen Hiking Boots
- Stylish design
- Super lightweight for day-long wearing
- Waterproof and breathable
- Work best for traction
- Features softer interior and footbed is removable
- Expensive
- No arch support
- Suitable for wider feet
Pros and Cons of Merrell Hiking Boots
- Affordable in price
- Ideal arch support and stability
- Durable build and best resilience
- Best grip with Vibram sole for a stronger grip
- Neat seams are powerful for feet functionality
- Suitable for wider feet
- The footbed is not removable
- Heavy and feels bulky
- Sober designs
Video Comparison of Keen Hiking Boots vs Merrell
A Merrell Hiking Boot
A Keen Hiking Boot
Details of Features Compared
Now let’s dive in and discover the differences between Keen and Merrell boots with a keen sight!
1. Price
The price of the hiking boot lets you decide whether to pick it or ditch it. I have usually found the Keen hiking boots rather expensive in price ranges than the Merrell hiking boots, which are affordable. Merrell boots are available for under $100, but Keen may ask you to increase your budget.
However, here is a thing to keep in mind. The price may vary depending on if you are buying the boot online or from the physical store.
2. Outsole
The outsole is all about traction and grip. Keen hiking boots use high grip and traction with some unspecified technology on the contrary, the Merrell hiking boots lean on the Vibrant outsoles.
Moreover, Keen boots have the best non-marking outsole, and you can wear them indoors with no mess, while the Merrell hiking boots do not have a non-marking outsole. However, Merrell boots are reliable for anti-slipping and work best for all-terrain from abrasive to smooth.
Keen hiking boots have rubber outsoles with multidirectional lugs and insoles, while Merrell boots have thick-set soles for hiking in snow, hills, mossy terrain, and rocky pathways.
3. Footbed
A removable footbed is good for hygienic feet and the best boot interior. Keen hiking boots have the metatomical footbed in multiple versions. Moreover, Keen boots have replaceable footbeds.
On the flip side, 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. Keen hiking boots have more footbed types, while Merrell offers limited types.
4. Water-resistance Performance
For a hiking boot, the water-resistance performance is a common concern. The better waterproof boot lets you hike on wet grounds with privilege. Although boot boots are waterproof, the difference is in their technology.
Keen hiking boots use waterproof members and leather that work for outdoor activities, whereas the Merrell hiking boots are fully waterproof with M-Select™ DRY waterproof technology for keeping boots dry. However, both boots are breathable for optimal airflow.
5. Arch Support
Arch support makes sure stability while hiking and walking. Keen hiking boots do not have arch support, whereas Merrell boots offer well-balanced arch support for stability in hiking, climbing, walking, descending, and ascending.
6. Style and Design
If you want a stylish hiking boot, you will definitely be better off with the Keen hiking boots. Keen boots are more trendy in style, colors, and overall details, whereas Merrell boots look bulky, sober, and professional.
7. Weight
The weight of the hiking boot is all about firm footsteps, stability in grip, and balanced trade. Keen boots are fairly lightweight on feet due to their minimal and trendy design. On the contrary, the Merrell hiking boots are a bit heavier. Since Merrell boots are bulky and have added padding, it adds to the boot’s overall weight.
8. Durability
Although both Keen and Merrell hiking boots are durable and offer exceptional quality for outdoor performance, there is still a slight difference.
But Keen boots are dedicated to everyday and hiking, so they are more prone to wear and tear, whereas the Merrell boots are robust and have durability as an underlying factor. Moreover, the seams of Keen hiking boots may get frayed, but Merrell has net seams with the best quality.
9. Dedicated for
Keen boots have roomy interiors; therefore, their hiking boots are more suitable for wide feet, whereas the Merrell hiking boots are a bit narrow in design and may be suitable for narrow or thinner feet shape.
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