I test walking shoes for a living and the breathable, summer-friendly version of my favorite trail shoe is now 25% off in REI’s 4th of July sale

Don’t sweat the small stuff, with this well-ventilated trail shoe

Merrell Moab Speed 2
(Image credit: Future/Lou Mudge)

The Merrell Moab Speed 2 was my top shoe in 2024 for trail walks. Lightweight, comfortable, and durable, I rated it four out of five stars when I tested it for my guide to the best walking shoes.

One of the reasons I withheld that fifth star was that it’s not very breathable.

I’ve hiked enough to know sturdy shoes that provide enough support for long walks won’t feel breezy, but swampy toes can be a bit of a downer when you’re clocking up the miles.

Thankfully, there are several iterations of the Speed 2, and the Speed 2 Vent is now reduced by 25% in the 4th of July sale at REI.

Merrell Moab Speed 2 Vent - Men's
Save $124.02
Merrell Moab Speed 2 Vent - Men's: was $140 now $15.98 at REI

This discount is only available on men’s shoes, with sizes 7.5-13 still in stock. As they are in the REI outlet, they won't be available forever—once they’re gone, they’re gone.

The honeycomb-style mesh allows more airflow than the original Speed 2, keeping your feet cooler for longer.

This does mean you sacrifice water resistance, but on summer hikes, this isn't as high a priority.

I’m fussy when picking shoes for my walking shoe guide. I nitpick things that other people would probably let slide. However, this means that when I recommend a shoe, you can be sure it’s passed my exacting standards and rigorous testing protocol.

I loved how lightweight the Moab Speed 2 is, and there’s a good amount of toe, ankle and heel protection. The upper is rigid and supportive, meaning that even if you take a spill, your feet are well protected.

My main complaint is that on smooth surfaces like asphalt, the grip isn’t as good as some of the other shoes in the guide. However, as few walking trails are paved, this isn’t a deal-breaker.

Lou Mudge
Fitness Writer

Lou Mudge is a Health Writer at Future Plc, working across Fit&Well and Coach. She previously worked for Live Science, and regularly writes for Space.com and Pet's Radar. Based in Bath, UK, she has a passion for food, nutrition and health and is eager to demystify diet culture in order to make health and fitness accessible to everybody.

Multiple diagnoses in her early twenties sparked an interest in the gut-brain axis and the impact that diet and exercise can have on both physical and mental health. She was put on the FODMAP elimination diet during this time and learned to adapt recipes to fit these parameters, while retaining core flavors and textures, and now enjoys cooking for gut health. 

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