While preparing to climb the cables at Half Dome at Yosemite, I realized that I needed some better "grip" boots. The dome itself is granite -- so you have to have some amazing grip on your shoes or boots (especially since it can be slick).
However, the Half Dome hike is also very long -- more than 12 hours of hiking (half of which is uphill and often on rock that is wet by the two major falls that you traverse alongside).
After searching for the best boots, I noticed that many experienced hikers seem to go with Merrell. Thankfully, the San Francisco Bay Area has TWO Merrell outlets -- at the outlet malls in Vacaville and Livermore. The one in Livermore is closer. As soon as they opened (due to COVID-19 restrictions), I made sure to visit.
The store is what you expect -- Merrell products with significant savings. There seems to be many sales (so check on them before you go). When I went (the first day opened after COVID restrictions lifted), they had a "Buy 1 Get Second for 1/2 Off" sale.
While the store did quite a bit to insure safe patronage during a pandemic (they were clean, limited number of customers, wiped down surfaces, etc.), the employees were very helpful. They allowed me to try on different shoes. Not only that, but they made great recommendations based upon our unique upcoming adventures.
I ended up with two fantastic options -- boots and shoes. I saved a lot of money too. I wore the boots atop Half Dome. They were extremely comfortable for a long hike over varying terrain and, of course, the climb up the cables to the top.
If you're looking for some great hiking shoes or even everyday options for your feet, I strongly recommend this Merrell Shoes outlet!
HINT: Call ahead to find out about their promotions. I intended to buy the MOAB boots; however, I found another pair that I liked just as much (after trying on both). I bought the Men's Phoenix 2 Mid Thermo for $79.98 -- plus half off my second pair. They were equally as comfortable as the MOABs.
Also: The MOABs weren't on sale with the BOGOHalfOff promotion. In fact, I think that they were the only shoes not on sale. They were actually full retail price -- even higher than what you'd normally pay in most stores. Since the MOAB boots were the reason that I drove to the outlet, I might not have driven there if I knew this. However, I was happy to try them on and, ultimately, with my choices. read more