Moab FST Mid GORE-TEX®

I got these boots as a replacement for an earlier Moab Gore-tex model that turned out not to be waterproof (two pairs in succession, one replaced by the retailer, one by Merrell directly). These are equally comfortable, undoubtedly amongst the most comfortable boots I have ever had (I've been walking in boots for nearly 60 years). I've just walked the West Highland Way, Scotland, in them - 100 miles in 8 days. No blisters. But at the first puddle, in came the water. I had wet socks for most of the trip. At home I've taken a video of what happens when I immerse the lower few centimetres in a bowl of water - it literally runs in. Come on Merrell, you could do that as part of your quality control. What's wrong here?

Well after using Merrell as my go to trail running shoes for the last 5 pairs, I thought I'd give their hiking boots a go instead if the 'cheapish' brands I've used in the past, didn't buy direct and got them in a sale so, bit if a bargain I thought. Straight out of the box, like the trail running shoes I have, they're super comfortable with virtually zero need to wear them in. No blisters or soreness (I do approx 10 mile per day with my Husky when out walking). Now all seemed great until the dreaded snow thaw that we've recently had. At first I thought it was my feet sweating due to thermal socks, but after a quick experiment with kitchen roll (2 sheets) folded under the insoles, I can safely say, they're not waterproof. Water seems to be coming in from somewhere at the base as the top of my feet have been pretty dry, but the kitchen roll under the insoles certainly isn't, mainly the toe box area and slightly towards mid foot. So for being Gore-Tex lined I'm not impressed at all. Can't really rate them above cheap Karrimor you but at sports direct for keeping your feet dry. Currently in the process of returning them to retailer for refund.

Although well made, this boot seems somewhat lacking, especially where the tongue meets the upper part of the boot. The laces have unhooked themselves a number of times already. Altho my old Merrell boots are on their last legs, they still don't leak, even tho the stitching has broken in a number of places, I'm loathe to throw them away. I'm afraid the new replacement is somewhat disappointing, especially considering the price tag.