Merrell Moab 3 is the most purchased hiking boot in North America by volume. We researched the zero-break-in claim and compared the Vibram TC5+ outsole to Salomon's Contagrip MA.
Who it's for
Buy this if: Entry-level to intermediate hikers on established trails in variable weather.
Skip this if: Technical scramblers or hikers who regularly cross wet granite — Salomon's Contagrip outperforms Vibram TC5+ on wet rock.
In practice
Vibram TC5+ vs. Contagrip
Both outsoles use multi-lug patterns for mud and debris clearance. Vibram TC5+ uses a single rubber compound with 5mm lugs — effective on dirt trails, adequate on wet rock. Contagrip MA uses dual compounds and performs measurably better on wet granite and polished slickrock. For trail hiking under 30-degree grade, the difference is minimal. For technical terrain, choose Salomon.
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