Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I usually wear an 8 in regular shoes and an 8.5 in hiking boots. I ordered an 8.5 but the Moab 2 felt tight plus the toe box felt restrictive. Since there was conflicting information in amazon comments (size up 1/2 size, size up full-size) I decided to go to a Merrell outlet store to figure out the right sizing Right sizing was up 1/2 size above your normal *hiking boot size* . So instead of an 8.5, I needed a 9. Perfect fit. The employee was very knowledgeable and helpful. Here's what you need to know about these boots. 1. Merrell makes this model in a non-waterproof style. This one, the waterproof Moab 2, "feels tighter" on the foot she said, than the other model, due somehow to the waterproofing technology used. 2. The toe box is smaller in style (tapered) than some of Merrell's other footwear (like the model I link to below), but if you get the right size in Moab 2, it should just take a little bit of breaking in. (Indeed, only part of one day for me.) 3. The Moab 2 has a bit of a heel and a shank. That offers extra grip when on slippery slopes. It also has pronounced arch support. My experience of this is my foot feels ever-so-slightly like it's aimed downhill when I am standing on level ground. The employee confirmed it may feel this way. She also said that typically this style of sole fees good to people with medium-to-high arches. (I have a low arch and am somewhat flat-footed.) I would up buying the Moab 2 in a size 9. I like the Vibram sole, pronounced support in the sole, and I want to try something different. My experience of the Moab 2 is I feel sometimes a slight readjustment in my spine and even my hip muscles. It feels ever so slightly sore sometimes, but it may just be stretching those muscles. The employee confirmed the design is to optimize your spine posture. So I figure my other footwear may not have been supporting my frame properly. The employee also showed me a Merrell mid hiking boot that she said people with low arches like. Plus it has a roomy toe box. (The Chameleon 7 Limit) I decided to also buy a pair of those too: https://www.amazon.com/Merrell-Womens-Chameleon-Waterproof-Brindle/dp/B0728C1LNG/ I'm happy with my purchases. Thanks, Merrell!