or pick your starting city — the number is how many trails we list.
Hiking gear
François Dumaine
Published April 1, 2026 · Updated November 3, 2026
The trails in this guide at a glance
| Trail | Duration | Distance | Dog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mont du Lac des Cygnes Charlevoix | 4 hr | 8.6 km | yes |
| Parc national des Hautes-Gorges Charlevoix | park page, not a trail | yes | |
| Canyon Sainte-Anne Québec City Region | 1 hr 15 min | 3.0 km | yes |
| Mont Yamaska Montérégie | not listed | not listed | not listed |
| Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno Montérégie | park page, not a trail | not listed | |
Figures read from the LGPO trail pages on November 13, 2026. “Not listed” is shown as is.
I've been testing hiking boots on Quebec trails for over 15 years, and I can tell you that the Salomon X Ultra 4 vs Merrell Moab 3 question constantly comes up in my conversations with hikers. These two models literally dominate the hiking boot market, and for good reasons.
I've had the chance to test both over hundreds of kilometers, from the spring mud of the Laurentians to the slippery rocks of Charlevoix. Spoiler: both are excellent, but for very different hiker profiles.
In this comparison, I'll share my field experience to help you make the right choice based on your hiking style, budget, and priorities. Because ultimately, the best boot is the one that makes you want to get out more often!
The first thing that strikes you when comparing the Salomon X Ultra 4 and the Merrell Moab 3 is their completely different approach to design.
Salomon clearly designed this boot with a trail running meets hiking mentality. The profile is lower, more technical, with clean lines that breathe performance. The upper is built around the SensiFit system that wraps the foot like a glove.
After my tests on Mont du Lac des Cygnes, I can confirm that this construction excels on technical terrain. The Contagrip (Salomon's sole) really grips well on wet rocks.
Merrell took a more traditional approach with the Moab 3. This is classic hiking boot: higher upper, more robust construction, emphasis on durability and long-distance comfort.
The Vibram TC5+ sole is thicker than Salomon's, which translates to better shock absorption on long outings. I did the Parc national des Hautes-Gorges with them, and my feet thanked me after 20 km.
| Feature | Salomon X Ultra 4 | Merrell Moab 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (per boot) | ~400g | ~480g |
| Heel-toe drop | 11mm | 12mm |
| Upper height | Low | Medium |
| Sole type | Contagrip | Vibram TC5+ |
| Lacing system | Quicklace | Traditional |
After testing both models in varied conditions - from spring mud to rocky trails to slippery roots - here's where each boot really shines.
The Salomon X Ultra 4 is in its element on technical terrain. Its low profile and precise construction make it a real pleasure on demanding trails.
Its strengths:
I was impressed by its performance on the rocky sections of Canyon Sainte-Anne. Even on wet walkways, the grip was there.
The Merrell Moab 3 excels where many technical boots show their limits: on long distances and less technically demanding terrain.
Its strengths:
During my traverse of Mont Yamaska in wet conditions, the Moab 3 offered consistent comfort throughout the entire 6-hour outing.
Spring and fall: Both do well, but the Salomon evacuates moisture better thanks to its more aerated construction.
Summer: Advantage to the Salomon for its superior breathability.
Winter/cold conditions: The Merrell retains heat better thanks to its more robust construction, but neither is designed for harsh winter.
Let's talk money, because it's often the deciding factor! The prices of both models are in the same range, but their value really depends on your usage.
The Merrell is generally $15-20 cheaper, which can make the difference for tight budgets.
Here, my field experience speaks: the Merrell Moab 3 has slightly superior durability. After 800 km with each pair, the Merrell showed fewer signs of wear, particularly at the midsole level.
The Salomon, with its lighter construction, wears out a bit faster, but remains very decent for the price.
"After 15 years of testing boots, I can tell you that a good pair that lasts 2 years with intensive use is already an excellent investment."
If we calculate the cost per kilometer traveled:
The difference isn't huge, but it exists.
After years of advising hikers of all levels, I've noticed clear patterns in preferences. Here's my guide to help you choose based on your profile.
I've often recommended the Salomon to hikers who also do mountain biking or climbing. Its technical construction adapts well to these activities.
The Moab 3 is often my first choice for hikers discovering the easy trails around Montreal.
Hikers with children: Merrell Moab 3. The extra stability is appreciated when you're carrying a child or need to react quickly to their unpredictable movements.
Photography hikers: Salomon X Ultra 4. Its precision allows you to more easily reach technical spots for your photos.
Multi-day hikers: Merrell Moab 3. The extra comfort makes all the difference when you're chaining days with a heavy pack.
| Criteria | Salomon X Ultra 4 | Merrell Moab 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Good | Excellent |
| Technical terrain | Excellent | Good |
| Long distance | Good | Excellent |
| Wide feet | Difficult | Excellent |
| Sports versatility | Excellent | Average |
Fit is often what makes the difference between a memorable outing and an ordeal. I've seen too many hikers abandon a beautiful day because of poorly fitted boots.
Salomon X Ultra 4 uses the Quicklace system: a cable with a quick-tightening mechanism. It's great for quick adjustments on the go, but some find it lacks precision in adjustment.
Merrell Moab 3 keeps traditional lacing. Longer to adjust, but you can really customize the pressure at each level of the foot.
My experience: Salomon's Quicklace is fantastic when you know your settings well. Merrell's traditional system is more forgiving for beginners.
Here, the difference is major:
Salomon X Ultra 4:
Merrell Moab 3:
After tests at 25°C on Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno:
Salomon X Ultra 4: Superior breathability thanks to its more aerated construction. My feet stayed noticeably drier.
Merrell Moab 3: Decent breathability, but the more robust construction retains a bit more moisture.
The difference isn't dramatic, but it exists, especially during hot summer days.
After more than 1500 cumulative kilometers with these two models on Quebec trails and elsewhere, here's my honest verdict.
In my closet, I have both! Seriously. I use the Salomon for my technical outings and my days when I want to have fun on varied terrain. The Merrell comes out for my long hikes, my outings with significant elevation gain, and when I guide groups.
If I had to keep only one? Probably the Merrell Moab 3 for its versatility and unmatched comfort.
Here's the essential to make your choice between the Salomon X Ultra 4 and the Merrell Moab 3:
Don't forget: the best hiking boot is the one that makes you want to get out more often. Whether you choose the technical precision of the Salomon or the reassuring comfort of the Merrell, the important thing is to hit the trail!
So, what are you waiting for? The trails of Quebec are waiting for you, and with one of these two excellent boots on your feet, you're ready for adventure. Happy trails!
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Written by François Dumaine
