Merrell Trail Glove 7 Barefoot Hiking Shoe Review – Is It Trail-Approved?
Overview
The Merrell Trail Glove 7 is a barefoot hiking shoe designed for those who prefer a minimalist approach to outdoor footwear. With its zero-drop sole and wide toe box, this shoe allows for natural foot movement and ground feel, making it ideal for hiking, trail running, and minimalist trekking. What sets it apart in the world of barefoot shoes is its combination of flexibility, grip, and durability.
Key Features
- Zero-drop sole and ground feel
- Wide toe box and natural foot shape
- Various upper materials (mesh, leather, knit)
- Flexible sole with moderate thickness
- Excellent grip and traction for trail use
Trail Performance
The Merrell Trail Glove 7 excels in rough or rocky terrain, providing adequate protection while still allowing for natural movement. It performs well in muddy or wet conditions, thanks to its quick-drying materials. For long-distance hikes, the shoe offers comfort and support, maintaining stability on uphill and downhill sections.
Comfort & Fit
Straight out of the box, the Trail Glove 7 feels comfortable and requires minimal break-in time. The wide toe box accommodates natural foot splay, but some users may find the lack of arch support challenging. Heel slippage is minimal, and the overall fit is true to size.
Durability & Weather Resistance
After repeated use, the Trail Glove 7 shows good durability with minimal sole wear. The upper materials offer decent water resistance and dry quickly. The shoe holds up well in various weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for outdoor adventures.
User Reviews
Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
“The Merrell Trail Glove 7 gives me that barefoot feeling but with enough protection for rocky trails. I wore these on a 12-mile day hike with no blisters.” – Sarah B.
“I use these for trail running and backpacking — they flex with your foot and the grip is solid. True minimalist feel.” – Evan R.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Excellent ground feel and foot freedom
- Lightweight and highly flexible
- Breathable and quick-drying materials
- Cons:
- Not ideal for carrying heavy packs
- Less protection on sharp rocks
- Minimal arch support (by design)
Comparison Table
| Shoe | Weight | Sole Thickness | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merrell Trail Glove 7 | 10.2 oz | 6mm | Minimalist hiking | $$$ |
| Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion | 12.2 oz | 5.5mm | Waterproof hiking | $$ |
| Vivobarefoot Tracker ESC | 14 oz | 6.5mm | Rugged backpacking | $$$$ |
Final Verdict
The Merrell Trail Glove 7 is best suited for hikers looking for a natural stride experience, whether transitioning to minimalist shoes or already experienced with barefoot footwear. Its emphasis on ground feel and flexibility makes it a top choice for those seeking a more connected outdoor experience.
Where to Buy
👉 Check Merrell Trail Glove 7 on Amazon
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
#Merrell #Trail #Glove
Discover more from Gear Up!
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
