Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip Waterproof Boot Review

If your looking for a burly winter boot without the bulk, check out the Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip. The boot has the same profile as a regular hiking boot, but it's much warmer and has much better traction in the snow. The zipper allows you to slip the boot on and off easily which is great when changing into ski boots in the parking lot.

Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip Waterproof Boot

These boots are rated for temperatures up to -40 below. This rating is achieved with 400 grams of Primaloft Insulation and a Polartec 200 Thermo Lining. These insulating layers are both have an Aegis Anti-Microbial treatment. Between the layers is a silver reflective film that holds heat in the boot. On a warm day (50 degrees) my feet sweat in these boots. On cold days (20 degrees) I'm glad to have these boots on.

The lower part of the boot is wrapped in a double density TPU waterproof shell. This shell not only keeps your foot dry, it also provides support for the entire boot. The shell makes the boot feel stiffer than a traditional hiking boot. I'd compare it to a cross country ski boot.

Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip Waterproof Boot -- Rear

The rear of the Snowmotion has a large strap so you can get the boots on and off with gloves on. The TPU Backstay extends above your ankle to provide additional support. You can also see the lip on the heel. This helps hold straps in place if your snowshoeing or wearing traction devices as pictured below.

Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip Waterproof Boot -- Front

The TPU shell covers a large portion of the toe. This helps protect your toes and keeps them from getting wet. Notice the gaiter D-ring and the baffle behind the zipper. The leather upper is also waterproof. Sadly the only downside I found to these boots is they slowly unzip while your walking in them. It's not a big deal to bend down and zip them up, but if you have gaiters covering the zipper it would be difficult. As a fix, I put loctite on the teeth of the zipper and that helped. Loctite is used on the threads of screws to hold them in place.

Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip Waterproof Boot -- Bottom

The sole is composed of Vibram Thermo 6 Sole/Trek Dura Rubber. The 6mm Lugs provide plenty of traction on the snow. The lug patterns do a good job of shedding snow, but mud is a different story.

Footprint in the Snow

Notice the burly footprint left behind by the Snowmotion 8. The lugs provide ample traction on the snow.

BOTTOMLINE: Zip Through the Snow in the Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip

Buy the Merrell Snowmotion 8 Zip Waterproof Boot