Rocky Summit Elite R.A.K. vs Merrell Moab 3 Mid: A Minimalist Hiker’s Review
Hey, I’m Jake — the minimalist hiker from HikerHeritage. I believe in carrying less, moving fast, and choosing gear that earns its spot in my pack. This time, I put two boots to the test:
- Rocky Summit Elite R.A.K. eVent Waterproof Knit – sleek, lightweight, and built for wet trails.
- Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof – the classic crowd-favorite known for comfort and durability.
Here’s how they stack up on real trails.
Rocky Summit Elite R.A.K. eVent® Waterproof Knit Hiking Boot
Light, waterproof, and breathable — this boot keeps you moving fast without the bulk.
- ✅ Waterproof eVent® fabric that breathes
- ✅ Vibram® LITEBASE outsole for wet traction
- ✅ Lightweight EVA midsole + fiberglass shank
- ✅ SHIELD Guard protection in high-wear zones
- ✅ Rocky Rebound footbed for long hikes
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Moab has been the go-to hiking boot for over 20 million hikers worldwide. The newest version, the Moab 3 Mid WP, keeps the tradition alive with upgrades:
- ✅ Suede leather + mesh upper for breathability and toughness
- ✅ Vibram® TC5+ outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip
- ✅ Merrell Air Cushion in heel for shock absorption
- ✅ Nylon arch shank for stability on rocky terrain
- ✅ Proven comfort straight out of the box
It’s the workhorse boot that balances value, comfort, and durability.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Rocky Summit Elite R.A.K. | Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofing | eVent® membrane, breathable + waterproof | Waterproof membrane, some versions with GORE-TEX |
| Weight | Light and agile, great for speed | Average weight, more solid |
| Traction | Vibram® LITEBASE outsole | Vibram® TC5+ outsole, 5mm lugs |
| Comfort | Rocky Rebound footbed, snug fit | Cushioned, roomy, familiar fit |
| Price | Mid-to-premium | Affordable, high value |
Trail-Tested: My Experience
Rocky Summit Elite: I took these through soggy forest trails and streams. They stayed dry, felt light, and flexed with my stride. Zero hot spots, no soggy socks.
Merrell Moab 3: On rocky ridges, the cushioning stood out. The leather needed a short break-in, but after that, these boots felt like old friends. Solid grip in mud, though a little heavier on climbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Rocky Summit Elite boots good in deep mud?
Yes. The Vibram® LITEBASE outsole handles mud well, and the knit waterproof upper keeps your feet dry.
Do the Merrell Moab 3 boots run heavy?
At about 17.5 oz per shoe, they’re average weight. Not the lightest, but not clunky either.
Final Verdict
If you want a lightweight, agile, and modern boot that thrives in wet conditions, go with the Rocky Summit Elite R.A.K..
If you want a dependable, budget-friendly classic with proven comfort, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP is hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, both boots can carry you far on the trail — it just depends if you want sleek minimalism or rugged tradition.
✅ Buy the Rocky Summit Elite Boots