ISPO Award Winner 2023: Merrell – Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX

The trend of mixing an active outdoor lifestyle with urban everyday life is becoming increasingly popular. This is reflected in the awarded Merrell’s Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX, which is part of the Moab Speed 2 shoe collection. There are low-cut versions with and without Gore-Tex available for both women and men, as well as a mid-cut with a Gore-Tex membrane. “The product line is targeted at younger consumers who value sportiness, style, and versatility in their hiking boots,” says Elizabeth Czachorski from Merrell.

The update of the US manufacturer’s most successful hiking shoe series impressed the jury of the ISPO Awards in many ways. Many of the ingredients used in the award-winning Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX are convincing. For example, the mesh lining, footbed cover, laces, and webbing are made from 100% recycled polyester, reflecting Merrell’s commitment to using environmentally friendly materials in its shoe collections. Speaking of membranes, it is worth noting that this hiker is equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane, which is exceptionally breathable and waterproof. In addition to these sustainable aspects, the three models feature a contemporary design. Modern hiking shoes must be suitable for everyday wear and comfortable, as well as rugged and stable enough for outdoor use. The 30% thicker midsole compared to previous models provides excellent comfort, while the Vibram soles provide excellent traction and grip

Underfoot comfort is significant to the consumer. “We built in even more cushioning underfoot with our customized FloatPro Foam™. Increasing the foam by 30%, to provide even better rebound and lightweight cushioning”, says Elizabeth Czachorski. Furthermore, Merrell stripped away layers and complexity in the uppers of the Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX, providing a great heel lock and a secure mid-foot, all while making sure there is adequate room in the toes for all-day comfort on the trail.

To help stabilize and support this new midsole, the Merrell team designed a brand new FlexPlate™. The asymmetrical design is engineered to stabilize the foot and provide a supported and natural-walking motion, leading to more stability in the lab tests. In addition, the designers have given further thought to traction. “We created an all-new design with knowledge gained from the ISPO Award-winning Rogue hiker”, Elizabeth Czachorski describes the process of developing the Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX. “This new design features the Traction Lug that helps to improve surface contact, we improved the lug shape and positioning for breaking and push off and updated the compound to Vibram TC5+ Rubber for added durability and grip.”

The knowledge gained to develop the Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX was rooted in extensive product testing of the original Moab Speed in both the lab and on the trail. “We continued testing through the development process to ensure we achieved the results we were seeking”, says Elizabeth Czachorski. Merrell's design team also took learnings from the ISPO Award-winning MTL Skyfire 2, a Merrell Test Lab product which combines critical Merrell Trail Team feedback of the design and performance, along with more scientific research done in the lab, which contributed to the innovation advancements in the Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX.

• New comfort level, increasing FloatPro foam by 30%
• New TPU FlexPlate for more stability and support
• Ultimate traction: upgraded outsole Vibram TC5+
• 100% recycled polyester mesh lining, footbed cover, laces, and webbing