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Why We Love This Deal
Merrell has made some of the best hiking boots for years, but it’s primarily known for its Moab series. It wasn’t until recently that another style emerged as a popular pick for its blending of outdoor performance with style. True to its name, it gained traction swiftly, and once it went on sale, inventory pretty much disappeared. But a whole run of sizes just popped up at REI, and now, you can get a pair for under $80.
The Merrell Speed Solo Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is on sale for $75 during REI’s Cyber Week sale, a whopping 50% discount off its normal price of $150. This shoe previously racked up dozens of five-star ratings when it was first released at REI, and it goes without saying that it’s become a massive success for Merrell since then. It’s only available in a single colorway, but it’s in stock in sizes 8 to 13, though we predict it’ll sell out before the sale is over.
Merrell Speed Solo Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, $75 (was $150) at Merrell
What Shoppers Should Know
- Height: Mid, over-ankle
- Upper: Suede, recycled mesh
- Midsole: FloatPro Foam
- Outsole: Vibram Ecostep
- Waterproof: Yes
- Special Feature: Integrated rock plate
- Best For: Hikes, yard work
If you need a well-built, protective boot for hiking, the Speed Solo Mid Waterproof is a stellar choice. It’s made from waterproof suede and 100% recycled mesh fabric, and these materials are paired with a waterproof membrane to keep splashes, mud, and rain from soaking your feet.
The bellows tongue keeps dirt or pebbles from falling into the boot and irritating your feet, and rubber overlays on the forefoot and heel guard against scrapes with rocks and brush.
Inside, a 100 percent recycled mesh lining offers good breathability to keep your feet from overheating. What about the midsole, you ask? It’s made from a combo of FloatPro Foam and BLOOM foam (a cushioning derived from algae) for reliable shock absorption with less environmental impact, and an embedded rock plate prevents sharp roots or rocks from poking up into your feet. Finally, a Vibram outsole generates goat-like traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
Related: Smartwool’s Classic Merino Wool Crew Socks Are on Sale for $13 at REI
What Hikers Are Saying
Merrell shoppers are calling the Speed Solo Mid a clear winner. On its previous REI page, where far more reviews can be found, one described the boot as “super light and very comfortable,” while one went as far as saying, “They are my absolute favorite pair, and they look amazing.”
Other shoppers praised the boot’s waterproofing, with one reviewer saying the Speed Solo Mid kept their feet “perfectly dry” in steady rain.
With its sturdy build and waterproof upper, the Speed Solo Mid Waterproof boot fits the bill perfectly, and at just $75, it’s a fraction of the price of similar hiking footwear. We’ve seen it sell out when the price wasn’t remotely as good, so don’t wait to get a pair if you want one.
