These boots have the virtue of being as comfortable as an old pair of slippers, but with great traction and sturdy support.  The coolness provided by the ventilation at top and sides is essential to their usefulness in hot climates.

The only downside with the mid height boots is that they take a little longer to put on and take off.  The have to be tied and untied.  They also have to be slipped on carefully so as not to compress downward the padding at the back of the ankle. Probably the extra time is worth it to keep pebbles and debris out of the shoes.

I wear these boots not only for hiking, but for work every day.  They are THAT comfortable.

The hooks for the laces at the ankle are large and effective, easy to use even for klutzes.

Past experience with the Merrell Moab line indicates that the laces will wear out long before the shoes.