Design

Merrell isn’t known for skimping on functionality, and there’s no disappointment to be had with the M Select GRIP outsoles plus 5mm lugs allowing for adventuring over demanding terrain.

This outsole works well on slippery, wet surfaces due to the multi-directional grip. With plenty of flexibility plus grip, these hikers can handle pretty much any terrain.

Handling ascents and descents are also no problem with the grooves added to the heel and forefoot. Accidental bumps and humps from stone and boulders are also no issue with the sole’s front end shields that protect the toes.

Boasting a lightweight construction for its type also makes traveling long distances a breeze. Other features that make these low-cut hikers easy include a traditional closure system, a bellows tongue to keep debris out and a pull tab on the collar’s back for quick on and off.

There’s no doubt that the Merrell Alverstone Waterproof is a crucial piece of kit for adventurers due to its hiking capabilities.

Comfort

Both the women’s and men’s versions of the Alverstone Waterproof feature plenty of protection and comfort for adventures and performance hikers. Of course, you can’t be comfortable when wet, but that’s no problem with the mesh and suede leather upper that’s lined with an M Select Dry membrane.

Unfortunately, a few other reviewers seem to question the breathability of this membrane so that you may get a little sweaty on scorching days. However, this combination ensures superior protection from wet conditions.

Treating these hikers with Merrell patented M Select Fresh technology also reduces the chance of odour-causing microbes. What’s more, very minimal wear in period and good arch support creates extra comfort.

A hiker essential cushioning comes from the ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole, allowing plenty of comforts and shock absorption for challenging and uneven terrain.

Coming in a range of whole and half sizes, it should be easy to find a size that fits. Although the men’s version comes in a wide, the women’s only comes in a standard size.

Although most seem to find the fit spot on, a handful of comments suggest the fit is on the small or narrow side. So you may need to size up if you have wide feet or just like a roomy fit.

Materials

Various materials go into the Merrell Alverstone Waterproof hiking shoes to make them reliable and comfortable. Boasting an upper comprising rugged suede leather overlays, mesh panels and the M Select Dry membrane combines comfort and durability.

Leather is a hard-wearing material, whereas the mesh materials allow airflow. The M Select Dry membrane also keeps water out whilst allowing excess moisture to escape, although some users have questioned the breathability of this shoe.

A robust rubber sole and front-end rubber toe cap also ensure protection for your feet and shoes on the trail.

Durability

Merrell provides long-lasting hiking shoes at reasonable prices, with the Alverstone waterproof a prime example. As mentioned, the materials of this shoe are darn robust, resulting in a durable hiker.

A combination of robust leather and rubber are common choices for hiking shoes for a good reason, these materials last. What’s more, taking a glance at the Merrell Alverstone also gives you the impression of a well-made hiker that should last.

When choosing a waterproof membrane, you often lose breathability for hot hikes unless paying a premium for the famous Gore-Tex (GTX) waterproof membrane.

However, if you prefer complete breathability for sweat-inducing weather, Alverstone also sells a non-waterproof version of the Merrell Alverstone. This non-waterproof version is much more breathable for hot adventures, minus the waterproof liner.

The Merrell Alverstone Waterproof Hiking boot comes in at a pretty reasonable price. Still, if you’re after something more budget-friendly, then the Columbia Redmond III waterproof hiking shoe is a good choice. It boasts a lightweight, versatile, and affordable design perfect for everyday use or mild hiking.

Of course, when you go budget, you often lose on performance and durability, but there’s still plenty good to be said about this dependable hiking shoe. You’ll get good traction and comfort suited to most day hikes and activities for an affordable price and a durable, water-resistant upper.

If support in the ankle is what you need, the Moab 2 Mid waterproof is an excellent choice as more of a boot hiker. Like the Merrell Moab 2 hiking shoe, these hikers offer plenty of superior comforts, a lightweight feel, and a fair price.

In its second version, the Moab 2 Mid-hiker also boasts excellent cushioning, durability, and good traction for groomed trails or everyday wear.

Of course, the traction on wet, rocky, and muddy terrain could be better and is not as good as the Alverstone, but it’s all-around a pretty dependable hiker.

It’s not the easiest to find a lightweight hiker that does as much as the Merrell does, so there’s no surprise the Merrell Alverstone Waterproof is so popular among hikers. A design aimed at comfort, performance and water-resistant lets you keep on doing what you love, adventuring.

It’s been well commended due to its minimal break-in period, super grip, and arch support. Although some find the fit a little on the small side, you should get a darn comfy fit once you find the size to fit.

At such a reasonable price, the Merrell Alverstone waterproof turns out to be an essential wardrobe piece for adventures and hiking enthusiasts.