Barefoot 4 Life
Merrell Barfoot Shoes are the Best Barefoot shoe out there hands down. I made the switch to the barefoot shoe lifestyle about 12 years ago and have never looked back. I tried a few other brands that claim to be barefoot along the way, but nothing has ever compared to the Merrell Barefoot series in comfort and function. Make no mistake I only wear either the Trail or the Vapor glove in what ever I do; So these guys are on my feet everyday from work (Office & Jobsite), to training at the gym, on the trails, road runs, races, tri-Athlons, adventure races, playing sports, playing with my kids, coaching, hanging out, going out, what ever the occasion these are my go to shoes. Barefoot is more than a shoe style it is a lifestyle choice. It will change your feet, ... MoreMerrell Barfoot Shoes are the Best Barefoot shoe out there hands down. I made the switch to the barefoot shoe lifestyle about 12 years ago and have never looked back. I tried a few other brands that claim to be barefoot along the way, but nothing has ever compared to the Merrell Barefoot series in comfort and function. Make no mistake I only wear either the Trail or the Vapor glove in what ever I do; So these guys are on my feet everyday from work (Office & Jobsite), to training at the gym, on the trails, road runs, races, tri-Athlons, adventure races, playing sports, playing with my kids, coaching, hanging out, going out, what ever the occasion these are my go to shoes. Barefoot is more than a shoe style it is a lifestyle choice. It will change your feet, strengthen your ankles, lower calf muscles, adjust your stride, etc. back to what it was meant to be before we all started wearing shoes with heals so thick that you can't feel the ground you are walking on and have so much cushion that it causes heel strikes when you run. Since changing to barefoot shoes and correcting my running posture I have never had the likes of shin splints or any real foot/lower leg pains again, Once you get thru the initial use of your foot, ankle, calf stability muscles that you don't use in the "traditional" athletic shoe... They will be sore for the first few weeks as you restart to use the muscles that you have not been using since you were a toddler... It is smooth sailing and you will not want to turn back to those old overly padded ways again. So just my 2 cents for whom ever wants its, but once you go Barefoot you will not want to go back.... Show more
W
originally posted on merrell.com
Be Patient…You’ll Love Them
I have purchased and worn every generation of Merrell Trail Glove from the Series 3 onward. I have been extremely satisfied with every version, even though the shoe evolved a bit over time.I was initially skeptical of the Trail Glove 6 - putting them on for the first time, they felt harder and tighter than previous versions. However, after about 7-10 days of wearing them, the level of comfort increased as my feet and the shoes settled into their relationship. Now, I barely notice that I’m wearing them most of the time!I wear my Trail Glove 6s all day long and engage in a variety of activities (mostly walking over 5 miles /day). I find them to be comfortable, suitable, and stylish for anything that my feet are required to endure. The only issue I’ve ever had was ... MoreI have purchased and worn every generation of Merrell Trail Glove from the Series 3 onward. I have been extremely satisfied with every version, even though the shoe evolved a bit over time.I was initially skeptical of the Trail Glove 6 - putting them on for the first time, they felt harder and tighter than previous versions. However, after about 7-10 days of wearing them, the level of comfort increased as my feet and the shoes settled into their relationship. Now, I barely notice that I’m wearing them most of the time!I wear my Trail Glove 6s all day long and engage in a variety of activities (mostly walking over 5 miles /day). I find them to be comfortable, suitable, and stylish for anything that my feet are required to endure. The only issue I’ve ever had was tread-wear on each pair; however, every pair has lasted me about 2 years with no problem.I’m a big fan of this shoe series and Merrell footwear in general. Over the last 15 yrs, I’ve worn nothing else!... Show more
Merrellous
originally posted on merrell.com
Fans of Trail Glove 3 and 4 won't like these
I purchased a pair of the Merrell Trail Glove 6 through REI back in April thinking they would be like the Trail Glove 3, 4, and 5 which were my favorite shoes. I was wrong in my thinking. I wore a size 13 in the previous models, and ordered a size 13 in this model. It has appeared to fit appropriately in most aspects (toes aren't touching the end, heal isn't rubbing), but the toe box is too narrow (squeezes my toes) and there is too much arch support compared to the older models. The older Merrell models had a wider toe box. After breaking them in on various trail runs and hikes to give them a chance, they have rubbed a blister on my right foot. This was not the case with the older models mentioned. I find I frequently need to take these off due to feeling soreness ... MoreI purchased a pair of the Merrell Trail Glove 6 through REI back in April thinking they would be like the Trail Glove 3, 4, and 5 which were my favorite shoes. I was wrong in my thinking. I wore a size 13 in the previous models, and ordered a size 13 in this model. It has appeared to fit appropriately in most aspects (toes aren't touching the end, heal isn't rubbing), but the toe box is too narrow (squeezes my toes) and there is too much arch support compared to the older models. The older Merrell models had a wider toe box. After breaking them in on various trail runs and hikes to give them a chance, they have rubbed a blister on my right foot. This was not the case with the older models mentioned. I find I frequently need to take these off due to feeling soreness in my toes. This makes me sad because I really liked Merrells before and now I don't.Not all feet are the same, but if others enjoyed the Merrell Trail Glove 3, 4, or 5 models they may not like this model. Definitely try them on before purchasing. I'll be trying some other zero drop show manufacturer options (Xero or Vivo).If Merrell decides to bring back the Trail Glove 3, 4, or 5 design I may become it's customer again.... Show more
Luke
originally posted on merrell.com
Had Potential
I purchased these shoes back in March and when they came in I was pleasantly surprised. As other reviewers have said, they are definitely not minimalist shoes. However, I particularly liked that aspect of them because they were a little more supportive and I was using them as an everyday shoe for walking and being on my feet most of the day. At first it was all great and I found them comfortable, yet not bulky like regular shoes. They provided a little support and were still somewhat natural feeling and allowed me to move freely. The downside to these are that they quickly deteriorated. I couldn't believe that after like 45 days the sole was separating from the toe area. A short period after that and pieces of the bottom were separating as well. Soon I realized ... MoreI purchased these shoes back in March and when they came in I was pleasantly surprised. As other reviewers have said, they are definitely not minimalist shoes. However, I particularly liked that aspect of them because they were a little more supportive and I was using them as an everyday shoe for walking and being on my feet most of the day. At first it was all great and I found them comfortable, yet not bulky like regular shoes. They provided a little support and were still somewhat natural feeling and allowed me to move freely. The downside to these are that they quickly deteriorated. I couldn't believe that after like 45 days the sole was separating from the toe area. A short period after that and pieces of the bottom were separating as well. Soon I realized these shoes are terribly constructed. I've purchased Merrells before and they lasted forever. Never an issue. This shoes were definitely not worth their price tag. I can't believe how poor the craftsmanship of these shoes are. I highly recommend you look elsewhere if you are going to drop $100 on a pair of shoes. If you are running in these I couldn't imagine they would last more than a few weeks. Hopefully they change the manufacturing and start producing better quality in the future.... Show more
Ferris
originally posted on merrell.com
New Model of Trail Gloves
I purchased these shoes to replace a pair of Trail Glove 3s I’ve had for almost six years. The current Trail glove 6 is a comfortable shoe but I have a few caveats.1) The inner sock/tongue panels are too restrictive and uncomfortable with socks and I almost always have to go barefoot in them.2) The toe box and body is a little more narrow than it should be. As I move I want my foot to spread out and breath and it cannot do that in the current design of the shoe. My foot is not considered wide but hits that border between medium and wide. A little extra width would be appreciated.3) The added arch was an unwelcome surprise at first but it grew on me quickly and added to my comfort shortly after I started wearing them.Now the good.1) The shoe fits well and is ... MoreI purchased these shoes to replace a pair of Trail Glove 3s I’ve had for almost six years. The current Trail glove 6 is a comfortable shoe but I have a few caveats.1) The inner sock/tongue panels are too restrictive and uncomfortable with socks and I almost always have to go barefoot in them.2) The toe box and body is a little more narrow than it should be. As I move I want my foot to spread out and breath and it cannot do that in the current design of the shoe. My foot is not considered wide but hits that border between medium and wide. A little extra width would be appreciated.3) The added arch was an unwelcome surprise at first but it grew on me quickly and added to my comfort shortly after I started wearing them.Now the good.1) The shoe fits well and is almost like a sock in a way. It’s comfortable for long wear and looks great on with no unwelcome rubbing or friction.2) The shoe is stable. The way it conforms with my foot makes me feel supported and balanced in a very good way.3) the arch support and rethought sole adds to a comfort I did not expect based on experiences with previous models.Overall a lot to love here. My thoughts for the next generation though would just be a bigger toe box, a little added width, and removal of that inner tongue sock like thing that can be aggravating and tight especially should I choose to wear socks with them.... Show more
Kevin C
originally posted on merrell.com
Solid, supportive *Minimalist* trail shoe
This is my 3rd pair of trail gloves. I have generally been very happy with them. I would say the form and essence of the shoe has remained fairly consistent over the years. Lightweight, well made with quality materials. My first two pairs both lasted several years, I expect these will perform the same. I have had several pairs of New Balance minimalist shoes as well. I think these are slightly more comfortable than my last pair of NB minimus 20 V7.First, as many have mentioned, these are NOT a true barefoot shoe, but I knew that when I bought them, so I am not disappointed. They are a minimalist shoe with very little cushioning, but they do have a solid formed arch. The first pair I owned had a stronger arch than I was used to wearing, but I got used to it. I tend ... MoreThis is my 3rd pair of trail gloves. I have generally been very happy with them. I would say the form and essence of the shoe has remained fairly consistent over the years. Lightweight, well made with quality materials. My first two pairs both lasted several years, I expect these will perform the same. I have had several pairs of New Balance minimalist shoes as well. I think these are slightly more comfortable than my last pair of NB minimus 20 V7.First, as many have mentioned, these are NOT a true barefoot shoe, but I knew that when I bought them, so I am not disappointed. They are a minimalist shoe with very little cushioning, but they do have a solid formed arch. The first pair I owned had a stronger arch than I was used to wearing, but I got used to it. I tend to wear shoes with stronger arches now, so this new pair was as I expected.The shoe is quite comfortable without much break in period for me. I have what I consider to be a pretty average size foot, arch, and neutral strike pattern. They do tend to run a bit narrow through the hind and midfoot, but do open up well in the toes. They are slightly long. I usually buy 11, but I needed 10.5 in these.I am in my mid 40's, 6'0'', 205. Bad genes, lots of aggressive athletics, and some pudge left me with painful knee arthritis. I can't run anymore, so I will not be running in these shoes. I have taken them on short hikes with moderate roots and rocks. They perform admirably with good grip. But, my knees like to have a bit more cushioning if I go much more than 2-3 miles, especially if I have to do any large steps/drops/scrambles. I have not hiked in wet conditions, but wearing them around town in rainy conditions I have noticed they don't hold grip very well. I might have concerns about slick rocks/roots.I work in healthcare. These are perfect for working around the hospital and medical clinic. Lightweight, supportive with just a little cushion.I also use them for cross-training, weightlifting, etc. Again, lightweight with good support and good grip. Still have good feel of foot and toe position.Overall, very pleased with the purchase. Fit as expected other than being just a little bit big and a little tight in midfoot. Questionable wet grip? I will likely purchase future iterations of this shoe because they and comfortable and durable.... Show more
Tennessee man
originally posted on merrell.com
They used to be amazing...
Been Buying Merrell Trail Gloves for work and recreational use since the trail glove 4. I've gone through 6 pairs of them and keep coming back to buy them again. They have always been true to size, light, thin soled, flexible, comfortable shoes. My Trail Glove 6s were delivered today and I am beyond disappointed.... The soles are SOOOO much harder and thicker.... these used to be akin to barefoot shoes but what in the world did I just buy.... these are like normal wedge-heeled running shoes now. There is no way that these are zero-drop anymore, i can feel the heel strike *big time*. My feet have widened substantially from using the other trail gloves for so long and now these new ones are so incredibly slim that my feet hardly even fit in them!!!! (I have been a fan ... MoreBeen Buying Merrell Trail Gloves for work and recreational use since the trail glove 4. I've gone through 6 pairs of them and keep coming back to buy them again. They have always been true to size, light, thin soled, flexible, comfortable shoes. My Trail Glove 6s were delivered today and I am beyond disappointed.... The soles are SOOOO much harder and thicker.... these used to be akin to barefoot shoes but what in the world did I just buy.... these are like normal wedge-heeled running shoes now. There is no way that these are zero-drop anymore, i can feel the heel strike *big time*. My feet have widened substantially from using the other trail gloves for so long and now these new ones are so incredibly slim that my feet hardly even fit in them!!!! (I have been a fan of merrell shoes for years and years and they have always been true to size up until this shoe). What was Merrell thinking designing this shoe??? Its thick, hard, its loud to walk in..... has an extremely ****skinny**** toe box.... the tongue is held in place with an elastic strap right at the top and its actually difficult to get on... the laces are now round instead of flat and dig into your foot through the mesh when done up tight and these shoes are HEAVIER.... Merrell what were you thinking!!!??? You need to go back to the drawing board with these shoes. The trail glove 3 and 4 were revolutionary shoes. These new ones are worse in every way possible. So so disappointed that my favorite shoes are no more. Please return to the barefoot platform that made these shoes great. I'm gonna have to find a new barefoot style running shoe because these are ridiculously bad shoes... for 175 dollars after tax this is criminal.... Show more
TrailGloveFan
originally posted on merrell.com
Toe Box is too narrow now v/s prior models (TG4)
I have been running and loving Trail Gloves starting with the 1st version ( still have them thanks to shoe goo). This Trail Glove 6 is way too narrow in the toe box v/s the great Trail Glove 4. As others have written (and I should have heeded that advice), I loosened the laces just about as far as they would go and still had difficulty getting my foot inside. These definitely do not run 1/2 size larger. There is no comparison to the best version, TG4s. What happened Merrell? Why did you abandon the last for this, what was my and many others' THE goto minimal, barefoot Trail shoe? Note, my TG4s had lasted for so long as I was running on softer Kentucky trails but now am on hard and rocky Southern California trails which is why I had high hopes for the outsole pattern ... MoreI have been running and loving Trail Gloves starting with the 1st version ( still have them thanks to shoe goo). This Trail Glove 6 is way too narrow in the toe box v/s the great Trail Glove 4. As others have written (and I should have heeded that advice), I loosened the laces just about as far as they would go and still had difficulty getting my foot inside. These definitely do not run 1/2 size larger. There is no comparison to the best version, TG4s. What happened Merrell? Why did you abandon the last for this, what was my and many others' THE goto minimal, barefoot Trail shoe? Note, my TG4s had lasted for so long as I was running on softer Kentucky trails but now am on hard and rocky Southern California trails which is why I had high hopes for the outsole pattern to better deal with the sharp rocks that quickly ate away at the TG4 lugs. But since these do not fit even close to the prior models I must go to another brand that will provide the zero-drop, wide foot-box, and minimal barefoot feel I had enjoyed so much in the previous model versions.Also, ditch the Gum version of the outsole, it is too soft and wears way too fast on harder surfaces as opposed to just about any other outsole color.Again Merrell, Please revert to the model 4 version and I'll be back.I've attache photos of 3 of my 4 Trail gloves; originals, & 2 versions of the TG4... Show more
HAL9000
originally posted on merrell.com
Trail Glove 6 for bike with toe clips
I wanted to try these shoes not for running but for cycling on my road bike. I have a Morton’s “neuroma” (which is not an issue of a nerve but callous-like tissue around and compressing a digital nerve to the toes) between the second and third metatarsal bones (the ball of the foot area) of my left foot. After using clipless pedals for a few years, I began to have intense, excruciating burning pain in my left foot because of the “neuroma” after pedaling only a few miles. I tried different cycling shoes and cleats, but the problem is that all of the shoes that I found had the cleat-anchoring point pretty much right over the "neuroma". I tried using my cycling shoes with toe clips and no cleats, but I had the same problem with the anchor point centering pressure right ... MoreI wanted to try these shoes not for running but for cycling on my road bike. I have a Morton’s “neuroma” (which is not an issue of a nerve but callous-like tissue around and compressing a digital nerve to the toes) between the second and third metatarsal bones (the ball of the foot area) of my left foot. After using clipless pedals for a few years, I began to have intense, excruciating burning pain in my left foot because of the “neuroma” after pedaling only a few miles. I tried different cycling shoes and cleats, but the problem is that all of the shoes that I found had the cleat-anchoring point pretty much right over the "neuroma". I tried using my cycling shoes with toe clips and no cleats, but I had the same problem with the anchor point centering pressure right at the “neuroma”.So I bought the Trail Glove 6 as a potential shoe to use with toe clips. I have other trail runners, and those are very good for distributing the pressure across pretty much all of ball of the foot. What drew me to try the Trail Glove for cycling were several potential features that turn out to be true: Shoe height and width are not excessive (unlike my regular running shoes), so smooth entry into toe clips is facilitated. Outer sole is relatively smooth, so the shoe doesn’t snag the pedal edges (another clip entry issue). The outer sole also has a somewhat uni-body design that aligns with the metatarsal heads, so pressure is very widely distributed across the ball of the foot on the pedal. Ventilation through the upper mesh is good. The shoe is somewhat stiff like other trail runners and the so-called rock plate gives the shoe extra support at the pedal contact areas. Although the shoe is advertised for sockless running, I’m using my usual cycling socks for extra wicking and friction relief. I’m using the shoe size I would normally wear, which seems just right with socks. And one other benefit: nice, comfortable shoe for just walking around off the bike - a pleasure with no cleats to deal with. I’m sacrificing efficiency with toe clips, yes, but my cycling is for transport fun and fitness, not competition, and definitely not for self-inflicted pain, so a lot of practical improvement for me with this set up.The general feel of the shoe off the bike is initially a bit of a surprise, because the heel is lower than other shoes (and reminds me of the 70’s fad “Earth shoes” which were supposed to make you walk like you’re barefoot on the beach and your heel is sinking into the sand). Trail Glove 6 is not that severe, but noticeably different from all of my other foot apparel, and in line with the concept of “barefoot” running. I don’t intend to run in these, but if I had to, I think I could be happy.... Show more
NoMan
originally posted on merrell.com
Worst version of the Trail Glove
I have worn every version of the Trail Glove ever produced and been very pleased to this point. My Trail Gloves are used for many applications: hiking, running, lifting and everyday wear. I could not be more disappointed in version 6. I have given these every chance to break in (which none of the other generations required) but they are just not comfortable in any situation. The sole is very stiff and unresponsive, the shoe is so narrow that it actually pains my foot to wear after an hour or so. I have gutted these out for many months, but will be finding a new home for them. I see there is a version 7 out now but am very apprehensive to purchase given the design and function of version 6. Would very much like to see a return to fit, feel and function of versions 5 ... MoreI have worn every version of the Trail Glove ever produced and been very pleased to this point. My Trail Gloves are used for many applications: hiking, running, lifting and everyday wear. I could not be more disappointed in version 6. I have given these every chance to break in (which none of the other generations required) but they are just not comfortable in any situation. The sole is very stiff and unresponsive, the shoe is so narrow that it actually pains my foot to wear after an hour or so. I have gutted these out for many months, but will be finding a new home for them. I see there is a version 7 out now but am very apprehensive to purchase given the design and function of version 6. Would very much like to see a return to fit, feel and function of versions 5 and prior. Sadly, I think my time with Trail or Vapor Gloves and possibly Merrell is over for the time being as I do not want to spend another $100+ to find out if version 7 fit and preform well. Was unable to find and email to send feedback to, so hoping this review will suffice. Merrell, please return to the roots what a barefoot shoe should be, If I wanted something narrow and stiff we could purchase and of the other offerings. Apologies for the negative feedback, but hoping honest feedback will help with development and identifying customer trends and desires.... Show more
Erik
originally posted on merrell.com