Merrell All Out Blaze — It looks like a trail-running shoe with an extended ankle cuff. But the All Out screams “hiking boot” when you put it on — there’s a higher arch inside and an ensconcing, supportive fit with pods of gripping rubber and 6mm of lug depth on the sole. But the All Out is also among the most flexible footwear we tested, making for a unique on-the-trail feel.
It’s lightweight for a hybrid boot at 18 ounces. It is waterproof but has the lowest height of ankle cuff in the review, so keep out of puddles more than 4 inches deep.
Weight: 18 oz. (per boot, men’s size 12); MSRP: $150; More info/buy now
