Customer Reviews Merrell Snowbound Mid Waterproof

I wanted to love these as a replacement for the Merrell Thermo Arc 6, which I loved but which seems to have been discontinued. They're lightweight, waterproof and warm, but there was some kind of ridge running along the inside of the right shank, right along the ankle tendon that rubbed terribly. Wasn't a problem on the left boot, so maybe it was a defect in that particular pair. It didn't make a difference with padded socks or tying the boot more loosely. They are also wider than the Thermo Arc, so while they would be fine as a regular snow boot, they're not as good for the long winter walks I take with my dog. I am grateful Zappos let me return them even though they'd been worn, as I never would have been able to wear them for walks. Merrell, please bring back the Thermo Arc 6!

I've finally worn these boots enough to form a fair opinion. Save yourself ... DON'T BUY these boots unless you intend to wear them ONLY in the snow on NATURAL ground. Even then I'd be extremely cautious. The soles, while pliant at room temperature, harden significantly in the cold - not just below freezing; they become very slick/stiff, and have terrible traction additionally due to the shallow treads. They are warm ... no doubt, but walking on developed surfaces is highly problematic. Now, as one reviewer stated she did, I'll have to go to the expense of purchasing ice cleats. Unfortunately, it took TWO winter seasons to realize this as now I can't return them!!!

I'm not very happy with these boots. They fit good but the shaft is stiff and is uncomfortable. I tried not lacing them all the way up but that only helped slightly. After wearing them for a couple of hours the bottoms of my feet hurt too. I will be returning them.