When looking for a lightweight, comfortable water shoe, two popular options are the Merrell Hydro Moc and classic Crocs clogs. But with distinct designs and features tailored towards certain activities, is one shoe clearly better than the other?
This comprehensive guide breaks down how these water shoes compare across factors like purpose, traction, comfort, and more.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Aspects | Merrell Hydro Moc | Crocs |
| Purpose | Hiking & outdoor water activities like kayaking and canoeing | Casual everyday use, including beach & boats |
| Traction | Excellent – Vibram outsoles provide grip on wet surfaces | Poor to moderate grip depending on style |
| Comfort | Very comfortable, contoured footbeds and adjustable heel straps | Comfortable, lightweight foam construction |
| Support | Better arch & heel support from sturdier build | Minimal support in basic styles |
| Durability | Durable leather & webbing uppers | Foam can crack over time |
| Water Drainage | Mesh panels and ports allow water to drain quickly | Holes allow water to drain out |
| Style | Sporty, outdoorsy look | Casual, fun colors and patterns |
The biggest differences come down to intended use and level of traction and support needed for those activities. Read on for a detailed comparison of Merrell Hydro Moc versus Crocs water shoes.
Introducing The Merrell Hydro Moc
Merrell designed the Hydro Moc specifically as a water shoe for hiking and water sports like boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
The upper combines breathable mesh panels and durable leather with an adjustable neoprene heel strap for a secure fit.
Underfoot, the Hydro Moc utilizes a Vibram outsole (the same company that makes hiking boot soles) with sturdy rubber lugs that grip onto wet surfaces.
An air cushion heel absorbs shock for trail comfort.
The contoured M Select FIT.ECO+ footbed includes organic odor control to fight sweaty smells.
With its sporty trail-running style, the Hydro Moc works well for active outdoor pursuits in and around the water. It drains quickly thanks to mesh panels and ports in the toe box and sides.
While too bulky for all-day wear, the Hydro Moc provides excellent traction for hiking near streams and sure-footedness on slippery boat and kayak decks.
Introducing The Classic Crocs Clog
In contrast to the sport-focused Hydro Moc, the original Crocs clog stands out for its incredibly lightweight, funky, and casual design. The upper consists of Croslite foam – a proprietary closed-cell resin that is soft, flexible, and perforated for ventilation and drainage.
The footbed is moderately cushioned to be comfortable for extended wear. But the main benefit lies in how lightweight and easy to clean the one-piece Croslite foam construction is. Most classic Crocs have little traction on the bottom beyond some treads under the toe and heel.
Given their holes and ventilation, Crocs work quite well as slip-on beach shoes. The foam construction makes them buoyant enough to function as casual boat shoes too. However, they lack the secure fit, grip, and foot support to handle serious hiking.
For multi-day outdoor trips, the Hydro Moc has a clear advantage.
Water Traction & Grip Comparison
One significant difference between the Merrell Hydro Moc versus basic Crocs lies in wet/slippery traction.
As mentioned previously, the Hydro Moc utilizes sturdy Vibram rubber outsoles to provide excellent grip on wet surfaces like river rocks, boats, and kayak decks. Deep multidirectional lugs allow the shoe to grab onto slick terrain and secure footing for hiking near water.
In contrast, classic Crocs and even the Croc’s Swiftwater style optimized for water use only moderate traction. Mostly smooth bottoms mean they can still slip on algae-covered pool decks and boat floors. If planning to hike through streams or traverse slippery river rocks, the Merrell Hydro Moc has far superior traction and wet grip.
However, some perforated Crocs styles like the Swiftwater or Santa Cruz do have deeper heel/toe treads for a bit more traction around water. Still, the Hydro Moc outperforms in terms of non-slip wet grip.
Comfort & Support Differences
Comfortwise, both the Merrell Hydro Moc and standard Crocs clogs utilize cushioning and materials aimed at all-day wearability. However, they achieve this through somewhat different constructions.
The Hydro Moc adapts Merrell’s signature hiking shoe comfort technologies for amphibious use. An air cushion heel absorbs impacts while the contoured footbed provides good arch support.
Adjustable neoprene heel straps and leather/mesh uppers mold for a secure fit during active water pursuits. While not as featherlight as the Crocs, the Hydro Moc excels at active comfort.
Crocs rely on the cushioning properties and ventilation of their Croslite foam to make walking on hot surfaces for hours pleasant. The lightweight construction and roomy fit make them easy to kick on and off.
However, the basic Crocs clog has minimal arch support or ability to tighten the fit. So while supremely comfortable for casual wear, more rigorous activities call for additional foot support.
If you’ll primarily be wading through water or boating for brief periods, the cushion and ventilation of loyal Crocs fans will love the classic Crocs. But for multi-hour comfort while hiking near water, consider the Merrell Hydro Moc.
Water Drainage Design
Excellent drainage makes or breaks a good water shoe when creek traversing or hopping on and off boats. Quick drainage keeps the shoe lightweight when wet and helps it dry out faster later.
In this regard, both the Merrell Hydro Moc and perforated Crocs styles allow water to drain rapidly.
This keeps them from getting that heavy, soggy feeling of being waterlogged.
The Hydro Moc utilizes mesh panels on the uppers arranged in a way that aids drainage.
Further drainage holes under the arches and front toe box allow water to quickly flow out.
With Crocs, the hallmark perforated Croslite foam uppers also permit water to drain freely. Additional side holes near the heel aid flow-through drainage.
For best drainage, the mesh and side port design of the Hydro Moc may have a slight edge. But both shoes effectively shed water, especially compared to waterproof hiking boots that take ages to dry out.
Appearance, Style & Color Options
When it comes to style, the sportier Hydro Moc and funky Crocs clogs represent opposite ends of the spectrum.
Incorporating hiking shoe elements like sturdy leather panels and rugged laces, the Hydro Moc has an outdoorsy, adventurous look. Contrasting pops of color throughout provide visual interest. It comes in color combos with names like Ranger Green, Samoan Coral, and Magnet/Tarmac.
Meanwhile, Crocs established an iconic, ugly-cute aesthetic with their Swiss cheese-hole laden clogs. Fashionable they aren’t, but the colorful and whimsical look leans into the lightweight, casual vibe. Crisp solid hues and fun patterns characterize the vast Crocs lineup spanning everything from citrus orange to woodland camo.
Ultimately personal preference will dictate whether you favor the outdoorsy Hydro Moc style versus casual, kick-back vibe of Crocs. Both footwear options contain colorways to reflect your personality.
Durability Comparison
Evaluating durability reveals some subtle construction differences that affect long term wear.
The Hydro Moc uses quality materials like leather, mesh, and rugged webbing that hold up well during rugged use. Seams and panels are neatly secured for longevity. While not hiking boot-level indestructible, the Hydro Moc should keep going for multiple seasons of hard use.
With Crocs, basic clog styles rely solely on the Croslite foam comprising the whole shoe. This proprietary resin has decent elasticity and resistance to cracks and stress fractures. However, over multiple years, flex cracks can form, eventually breaking down the foam’s integrity. Seamless construction avoids potential failure points. But for extended heavy use, Crocs aren’t quite as robust.
If you want a rugged water shoe to rely on year after year, the Merrell Hydro Moc likely lasts longer. But replacement Crocs are readily available when the time comes thanks to the easily recognizable iconic design.
Price and Value Comparison
MSRP pricing puts the Merrell Hydro Moc around $80-100, varying by colorway.
Meanwhile, classic Crocs clogs cost $50 or less for solid color options.
So if budget-friendly price counts most, Crocs save you $30-50 upfront.
However, the Hydro Moc’s more technical build specialized for water use in the outdoors arguably justifies the higher price.
Over years of hiking trips and boating excursions, the Merrell could easily outlast 2-3 pairs of Crocs.
Taken in that context, the value proposition equalizes somewhat.
You also get what you pay for in terms of traction, foot support, and security of fit. So ultimately letting intended use and longevity desired guide your decision makes most sense here. Stretching the budget for Merrell’s if you’ll truly utilize their hiking-oriented performance could prove worthwhile long run.
Which Is Better Suited As A Boat Shoe?
Given their water-shedding perforated foam construction, Crocs have an edge for lightweight use as impromptu boat shoes. Slip-on ease and built-in drainage make them quite practical for hopping on and off small watercraft.
The foam base floats a bit, although neither Crocs nor Hydro Moc serve as life-saving flotation devices. However, some boaters appreciate the additional buoyancy when tired legs soak for long periods.
Lack of secure fit and traction definitely limits Crocs usage as boat shoes compared to performance water shoes. Those drawbacks just don’t matter as much for casual boating jaunts. Just don’t expect sure gripping security moving around a wet, slippery deck.
Of course, the traction and supportive fit of Merrell’s Hydro Moc adapt well for extended boating and water sports too. It really comes down personal priorities – convenience versus performance.
Using As Water Aerobics or Pool Shoes
Light, drainable shoes make shuffling through pool water much more pleasant and hygienic versus bare feet. Here Crocs have a distinct advantage courtesy of their feather-like foam construction.
The hole-laden bottoms even provide some push-off grip on slick pool surfaces. Cushioning soothes feet through low-impact water aerobics routines without compromising mobility.
While still wearable into the pool or hot tub, the heavier and more substantial Hydro Moc seems overbuilt for this solely aquatic purpose. The Hydro Moc remains perforated and ventilated enough for pool usage. But Crocs achieve that “barely wearing anything” feeling much better suited to extended sessions in the water.
Also Read: Differences Between Merrell Moab 2 And Moab 3 Hiking Shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The key differences between basic Crocs clogs and the Merrell Hydro Moc come down to intended use case, level of traction, overall support, and durability.
Crocs prioritize casual, slip-on comfort with their iconic lightweight closed-cell foam construction. Ventilation and drainage make them quite suitable for impromptu water wear. However, smooth soles offer moderate at best wet/dry traction. Open-back designs and minimal contouring limit athletic support during rigorous activity as well. Over years, flex cracks can compromise structural integrity.
In contrast, Merrell designed the Hydro Moc specifically as a water hiker/adventure shoe hybrid. Durable leather and mesh uppers provide a secure fit aided by a heel strap and partial lacing. Underfoot, Hydro Mocs utilize sturdy Vibram soles akin to a hiking boot for excellent grip even on slippery wet terrain. An air cushion heel, molded arch support, and shock absorbing midsole provide active comfort through long days on varied ground. So while less versatile for casual wear, the Hydro Moc shines when performance counts during water sports.
As hinted in the name, Merrell intended the Hydro Moc as specialized footwear for water environments like hiking through streams, boating, and paddlesports.
The Hydro Moc construction balances abrasion-resistant uppers, adjustable security, active comfort technologies, and rugged soles. Together this makes traversing slick terrain near water confident and comfortable for hours.
While wearable urban commuting or casually, the Hydro Moc feels a bit overbuilt for all-day street comfort. Where it truly shines is providing athletic adventure performance during activities in and around water. Think hiking across wet boulders, scaling a sea wall, or finding sure footing paddling a kayak or canoe.
Merrell footwear tends to fit true to size, but it’s always smart to try them on in-store for the best fit. Some wearers do find the Hydro Moc runs small or narrow, especially in wide footer friendly sizes like EE widths. Going up a half or full size resolves most tightness issues if between regular shoe sizes.
Also consider that neoprene and leather can tighten a bit when completely soaked through. So the snugness feeling when brand new out of the box may relax to feel “just right” after getting thoroughly wet.
Classic Crocs serve quite well as casual, lightweight water shoes thanks to their signature perforated foam construction. Ventilation ports and tread patterns effectively shed water to avoid a heavy soggy feeling mid-wear. Cushy Croslite foam provides moderate grip even on slick surfaces, cushioning for extended comfort.
While Crocs make easy, packable water shoes choices, their limitations come against more demanding environments. Lack of secure fit or supportive contouring can allow feet to slide on declines. Minimal traction struggles finding purchase scrambling over wet boulders.
So Crocs suffice for occasional beach walking, pool lounging, or hopping on a boat. But extended rugged adventures call for performance features offered in hiking-inspired designs like the Hydro Moc.
Closing Remarks
In the end, choosing between Merrell Hydro Mocs versus Crocs requires aligning intended purpose and performance needs.
Crocs prioritize lightweight flexibility and slip-on convenience above all else. Ventilated Croslite foam wears breezily for hours whether shuffling on summer streets or dipping toes in the lake. But compromised grip and support limit rugged capability.
Meanwhile, the Hydro Moc delivers athletic performance expected from a top hiking brand like Merrell. Durable build, supportive contouring, sturdy traction equip the Hydro Moc for treks through streams and managing slippery boat decks. Complex lacing stands out as the main ergonomic drawback.
So pick Merrell’s Hydro Moc water shoe/hiker hybrid if you want:
- Secure technical performance for water hiking & sports
- Confidence tackling slippery, uneven terrain
- Underfoot support for long days on your feet
Opt for versatile Crocs if desiring:
- Featherlight simplicity slipping on & off
- Breezy comfort floating through summer
- Cushy treads for poolside lounging
Hopefully the detailed comparison above helps you select your ideal lightweight water companion!
