Moab 3 Mid Waterproof vs Sawtooth X Low
top ten:best womens hiking boots
Choosing between the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof and the Oboz Sawtooth X Low comes down to whether you prioritize classic mid-cut ankle security with wet-weather protection, or low-cut agility paired with rugged, structured underfoot stability. The Merrell Moab line has long stood as the gold standard for immediate out-of-the-box comfort, blending soft pigskin leather, breathable mesh, and a waterproof membrane tailored for wet trails, muddy descents, and casual-to-moderate backpacking. In contrast, the Oboz Sawtooth X Low strips away ankle height to favor mobility and breathability while maintaining an exceptionally rigid, supportive chassis and an aggressively sculpted arch support system. Hikers confronting loose scree, heavy pack weights, and technical ascents often lean toward Oboz's stiffer construction, while those seeking plush cushioning, ankle coverage, and stream-crossing capability gravitate toward Merrell. Both deliver proven trail track records, but their distinct approaches to height, torsional stiffness, and climate control mean one will decidedly serve your terrain better than the other.
Spec-by-Spec
| Spec | Moab 3 Mid Waterproof | Sawtooth X Low |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (per pair) | 2 lbs 1 oz (936 g) | 1 lb 11.2 oz (770 g) |
| Capacity/Size | Women's US 5–12 (Medium & Wide) | Women's US 6–11 (Standard & Wide) |
| Materials | Pigskin leather and mesh upper, Vibram TC5+ outsole | Oiled nubuck leather, Cordura mesh, Trail Tread rubber |
| Price tier | Mid-range ($150) | Mid-range ($125–$140) |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Best use | Day hiking, wet-weather trails, light backpacking | Fast-paced hiking, dry-weather trails, rugged day hikes |
| Portability | Bulky mid-height boot; pack external lash only | Compact low-cut profile; easy to stow inside a pack |
| Durability | Moderate; softer leather and exposed mesh panels | High; thick nubuck overlays and reinforced toe/heel counters |
| Feature highlights | Waterproof membrane, bellows tongue, Kinetic Fit ADVANCED insole | O FIT Insole, ACT+ dual-density midsole, adaptive Trail Tread lugs |
Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Best for: Hikers seeking plush, all-weather comfort and dependable ankle coverage for mixed-condition trails and muddy weekend treks.
Pros
- Zero break-in time with immediate out-of-the-box plush comfort
- Mid-height collar provides debris protection and moderate ankle support
- Proprietary waterproof barrier keeps feet dry through shallow crossings and mud
- Dependable Vibram TC5+ rubber delivers consistent multi-surface traction
Cons
- Waterproof membrane limits breathability on hot summer outings
- Less torsional stiffness makes it prone to foot fatigue under heavy pack loads
- Soft midsole foam packs out faster than firmer polyurethane alternatives
Sawtooth X Low
Best for: Distance-oriented day hikers who demand rigid arch support, unyielding torsional stability, and low-cut agility on dry, rocky terrain.
Pros
- Class-leading O FIT insole offers unmatched arch support and heel cup alignment
- Stiffer chassis provides superior torsional stability on rocky, uneven ground
- Low-cut construction maximizes ankle mobility and dry-weather breathability
- High-abrasion Cordura and oiled nubuck upper withstand heavy scrape abuse
Cons
- Non-waterproof low design allows water entry in deep mud and streams
- Noticeably firm ride that requires a short break-in period for some hikers
- Low ankle collar leaves feet exposed to scree, gravel, and trail debris
The Verdict
While both footwear options excel in their respective categories, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof takes the overall win for versatility. Its mid-height collar, dependable waterproof membrane, and forgiving, ready-to-hike fit provide the all-around safety, weather resistance, and comfort that the majority of day hikers and weekend backpackers need across varying seasonal conditions. However, the Oboz Sawtooth X Low remains the superior choice for hikers demanding rigid arch support, high torsional stiffness, and durability on technical, arid trails. If you tackle hot, rocky trails with a loaded pack and demand structural stability over soft cushioning, the Sawtooth X Low is hard to top. But for hikers wanting a dependable, all-weather boot that protects against rolling terrain, splashy stream crossings, and trail grit straight out of the box, the Moab 3 Mid remains the undisputed benchmark.
See where both rank in the full list: the complete Top 10 →