Getting confused between Merrell and Timberland brands is obvious. Both brands are the best for making top-quality hiking boots in particular. However, many signature features overpower the other.
For instance,
The main difference between Merrell and Timberland boots is the weight. Merrell hiking boots are fairly lightweight whereas Timberland boots feel heavier on the feet for a day-long hike. More to add, Timberland hiking boots are more fasionable than the Merrell hiking boots.
There are many more differences, such as style, manufacturing, etc. So let’s take a look at them all one by one.
Comparison Between Merrell vs Timberland Hiking Boots
Features | Merrell Hiking Boots | Timberland Hiking Boots |
---|---|---|
Image | ![]() | ![]() |
Weight | Lightweight | Heavyweight |
Traction, outsole | Best traction and grip | Good traction on certain grounds |
Size and fitting | Feels comfortable on feet, runs true to size | We may need a break-in |
Price | Affordable and offers flexible price ranges (check) | It can be expensive (Check) |
Style/design | Offers subtle styles but more color options | Offers more style and sophisticated look but only black and brown colors |
Comfort /Interior | Soft and comfortable interior | Somewhat stiff and tough interior |
Material choice | Durable and comfortable material | The neat and fashionable approach is mainly known for work boot build |
Best Collections | Best Merrell Hiking Boots | Best Timberland Hiking Boots |
Details of Different Features Compared
Below, I have compared different features that justify the difference between Merrell and Timberland hiking boots.
1. Weight and Build
The weight of the Merrell hiking boots welcomes everybody to wear them. Generally, you can find Merrell hiking boots in lightweight build, whereas Timberland hiking boots feel somewhat heavy on the feet.
The reason is Merrell brands are dedicated to making hiking footwear that focuses more on comfort, whereas Timberland is primarily known for making work boots; however, now they have a dedicated range of hiking boots as well.
For example, I wore this Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Vent Mid Hiking Boot for a hiking trip, and its best comfort and lightweight material with only 15.3 Ounces never put an annoying strain on my feet. Therefore, I walked, ascended, and hiked with even more comfort.
On the other hand, the leather-made Timberland Men’s Anti-Fatigue Hiking Waterproof Leather Mt. Maddsen Boot felt quite heavy, with 3 pounds of weight compared to the Merrell boot.


2. Price and Affordability
The price factor in both Merrell and Timberland brands is very much noticeable. I have been a hiker, so I have many Merrell and Timberland boots, and without any exaggeration, I can say that Merrell is much more affordable and offers a flexible price range in their hiking boots.
On the flip side, Timberland boots being stylish, are costly; however, you can pick up the Timberland boots in sales and offers for affordability. Usually, Timberland hiking boots cost from $99 to $240, whereas Merrell hiking boots are available in the price range from $63 to $220.
For instance, I bought this Men’s Timberland Raw Tribe 6 Inch Outdoor Hiking Walking Ankle Boot, and it cost me about $483, which is- expensive. On the other hand, this Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot and its price of only $109.99 was pretty reasonably budget-friendly in view of the Timberland brand.
3. Interior, Cushioning, and Comfort
Timberland and Merrell, hiking boot brands, are known for quality, and there is no second thought about it. However, Merrell boots are relatively more comfortable and offer a plush interior, whereas Timberland boots focus more on style and design. Merrell boots come with the best softens under feet, so wearing them all day long feels friendly for the feet.
Timberland boots come with the best full-grain leather uppers that make it heavy and slightly challenging to ascend. On the flip side, Merrell boots use a synthetic mix and lightweight materials that is a way to add comfort. Merrell hiking boots also offer built-heel counter and arch support, whereas Timberland boots don’t.
For instance, this Merrell Women’s J034250 Hiking Boot with its rubber outsole and 100% Suede offered superior comfort for my wise and felt out-and-out comfy for a day-long hiking experience. On the contrary, this Timberland Women’s Ellendale Hiking Boot was not the best comforting for hiking, and its interior felt rigid and stiff, especially for the first few wearing times.

4. Design, Style, and Appearance
Many people especially pay heed to the design of hiking boots. In that regard, Merrell hiking boots lack some points, and they usually produce subtle designs however offer more options for color choice.
Timberland boots instantly get attention for being sophisticated, dainty, and premium from their appearance, but they only come in black and brown colors!
Timberland boots have a neat stitching and polished look that is very appealing for hiking. On the other hand, Merrell hiking boots feel somewhat dull, bulky, and less fashionable.
Timberland Men’s Lincoln Peak Lite Mid F/L Waterproof Hiking Boot and Timberland Men’s 6-Inch Premium Waterproof Boot are stylish and look good if you want to wear them for an everyday walk. On the other hand, this Merrell Men’s Alverstone Mid Hiking Boot and Merrell Men’s Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe look dull and offer a somewhat camouflage design!
5. Material Choice
Timberland boots look formal in appearance due to the material choice, whereas Merrell hiking boots look more cause for hiking boots. Timberland brand uses Nubuck leather as its primary material.
Moreover, Merrell hiking boots have higher traction in their outsoles which helps in gripping footsteps and best foot placement on abrasive, uneven, muddy grounds! Merrell mainly uses suede leather and mesh for the best fitting and comfortable out-of-the-box design, whereas Timberland may need a break-in for its build.
Such as this Timberland Men’s Euro Sprint Hiking Boot has been designed in durable Nubuck leather upper, whereas this Merrell Men’s Erie Mid Wp Hiking Boot comes with a suede and mesh upper to ensure breathability during hiking! Overall, Merrell can be more suitable for comfort, fitting, and performance while you hike, and Timberland fits well for style and longevity.
Video Comparison Based on Reviews
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Merrell Boot Review
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