Merrell and Jeep have a lot in common. The hiking footwear and off-road vehicle brands are both based out of Michigan. Their products are both designed with on-road and off-road capabilities. They both have a steadfast, committed, extremely loyal following of customers. And, they both have a deep connection to the dusty desert backcountry of Moab, Utah.
That’s why the two brands have put their heads together to collaborate on a Merrell x Jeep special-edition version of the Merrell Moab hiking boot. The Jeep and Merrell Moab 3, to be exact, is set to drop on October 16.
Merrell included a host of special features in the boots in a nod to the “Easter eggs” (small hidden decals) commonly found in Jeeps. They’re also designed to get dirty and take abuse off-road (aka on trail) and to still look good when you get to town afterward.
Thanks to this collaboration, you also have a chance to win a Jeep Wrangler. And you don’t even need to buy a pair of boots to enter! Although, you will have to wait until after the boots are available for purchase.
“This collaboration is authentic down to its roots. We upgraded the world’s best-selling hiking boot, the Moab, with trail-rated designs inspired by Jeep,” said Merrell Brand Marketing Manager Devon Vanoostveen. “With an increase in outdoor as a lifestyle, our historical knowledge of merging performance, style, and comfort empower all people to confidently explore the outdoors.”
Merrell Meets Jeep: Merrell Moab 3 x Jeep
The Merrell Moab is one of the brand’s flagship hikers. In fact, it’s one of the most popular hiking shoes in the world. Over 25 million pairs have sold since it was first introduced 15 years ago. The brand sells the Moab in a variety of styles and options. From low to mid, thermo, GORE-TEX, regular waterproof, extreme waterproof, and even “scrap” (made from scrap materials).
But, this new version of the Merrell Moab is different.
That’s largely because the folks at Merrell designed it with the same fun hidden finds that Jeep tucks into its own designs. Jeep started hiding Easter eggs in its cars back in 1997. It started with a seven-bar grille design that was a tribute to the TJ-generation Wrangler SUV’s hood cowling.
Today, Easter eggs are on every single Jeep that comes out of the factory. You’ll find flip-flop insignias tucked away on Jeep Gladiators and Vintage Willys Jeeps decals on Jeep Wrangler windows. And, Jeep Liberties have Morse code for “JL” stamped under their hoods. Some of their vehicles even have topographical maps of Moab, Utah, printed on their gear shifters.
That’s why the Merrell Moab 3 x Jeep is absolutely loaded with hidden designs of its own.
The Merrell Moab 3 x Jeep’s Hidden Designs
According to Merrell, the red “tow” lace hooks on the hiking boots represent the red tow hooks on the front of the Wrangler Rubicon. The larger heel webbing hook is supposed to represent a seat belt. Metal lace hardware shares similarity to the hatches on the Jeep 4×4 hood.
Jeep’s iconic seven-slot grille is embossed in the backstay. A monochromatic color scheme mimics the iconic Jeep 4×4 exterior colors. And the boots’ footbed inserts feature a topographical map of a popular off-road trail in Moab called “Hell’s Revenge.”
“Jeep’s heritage has so much synergy to our own legacy on the trail. Merrell’s mission is to share the simple power of being outside, and Jeep brings capability, craftsmanship and versatility to people who seek extraordinary journeys,” said Vanoostveen. “These boots were made for adventure and help navigate any journey with confidence.”
Merrell’s new boot will be available in three color schemes, with names pulled directly from Jeep’s factory palette: Sarge Green, Sting Grey, and Hydro Blue. They’ll be available at DICK’S Sporting Goods, Public Lands, and also Atmosphere retailers in the U.S., Canada, Taiwan, China, Japan, Peru, Panama, and Colombia.
But, the most exciting part about this collaboration is the Jeep Wrangler giveaway Merrell is holding. And it doesn’t even require a purchase of Merrell shoes.
Win a Jeep to Match Your Boots
As part of the launch of its Merrell Moab 3 x Jeep Hiking Boots, the brand is giving away a Jeep Wrangler — an actual, factory-fresh off-road vehicle. So if you really want the boots, but can’t afford the matching 4×4, this might be your golden opportunity.
The sweepstakes officially opens on October 23 and will run until November 6, 2023. Hopeful Jeep Wrangler owners will have just 2 weeks to enter. And, Merrell notes that there is no purchase necessary.
You don’t have to buy a pair of the new Merrell Moab 3 x Jeep boots — or any Merrell footwear, for that matter — in order to enter to win. Just visit the Merrell webpage for more information. Only residents of the U.S., Canada, Peru, Panama, and Colombia can enter, and it’s one per person.
The Merrell Moab 3 x Jeep is also a limited run, so who knows how fast they’ll leave the lot once available for purchase on October 16.
