My Experience with the Merrell Trail Glove 7
I’ll admit it: I’m one of those people who loves the outdoors, but Monday-to-Friday, I'm stuck in the buzz of city life. And while my Merrell Trail Glove shoes have seen a fair share of the trails around the Perth hills, I’ve found myself wearing them just as often in the heart of the city. The thing is, the more I walk, or even stand around, whether it’s exploring hidden city alleyways, strolling through local parks, or clambering up some rocks on a trail, the more I realise how much the Trail Glove offers, not just in performance, but in comfort, versatility and even style points!
When I first put on the Merrell Trail Glove, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure it would become my go-to shoe for every day. I had been slightly intimidated by its minimalist design and barefoot feel. However, after finding out that it was a more entry-level shoe into but barefoot trail running, I didn’t expect it to work so well in the urban jungle as someone who has never heard of barefoot shoes. In this, I quickly realized that the shoe’s flexibility, lightweight feel, and minimalist support made it just as comfortable on the pavement as it was on dirt.
Here’s the thing: urban streets, with their hard paved surfaces, potholes, and the occasional roughed up sidewalk, can be tough on your feet. I wanted a shoe that could offer comfort while giving me the natural freedom of movement I crave during long days of walking or even standing at work. The Trail Glove did exactly that and more.
So, what’s the secret to the Trail Glove’s versatility? I reckon it's the tech.
1. Barefoot Feel with Cushioning: Merrell nailed it with the Trail Glove’s minimalist approach. The shoe is designed with a low-profile sole that allows me to feel the ground beneath me, yet it still provides enough cushion to keep things comfortable. On longer walks through the city or an afternoon trail hike, my feet never feel sore, even after hours on my feet. This is something I wasn't used to coming from thick cushion soled shoes that somehow still made my feet feel fatigued. As it's a barefoot shoe, I think part of the reason why it works so well here is that it's supporting my feet to naturally strengthen my arches instead of letting them flop down on some high arch support insoles.
2. Breathability & Lightweight Design: Living in Perth city means a lot of walking in a proper four season climate. The breathable mesh upper keeps my feet cool and dry, even on our balmy summer days or during my brisk walks to catch the bus. They also dry extremely fast and easy since there's no removable insole. It’s light enough that I don’t feel weighed down, but also sturdy enough to handle
everything from a quick sprint to chasing my dog across the park. It also helps that it is so easy to pack them, simply by just rolling them up as their soles aren't rigid.
3. Vibram Outsole: Vibram outsoles are my favourite, hands down. It’s designed to provide superior traction on various surfaces, whether it’s smooth city streets, gravel paths, or muddy trails. It’s a great balance of flexibility and durability, allowing my feet to move naturally while still protecting me from rocks and rough terrain. It’s like the shoe adapts to where I am and what I’m doing. It's a perfect transition shoe, the sole being firm enough when you need it to be, yet offering that entry into the flexible world of barefoot soles. The only downside to this is that they squeak like a pig when you walk with them on wet pavement!
4. Style: Maybe it's down to personal preference but I think these are some of the most jack-of-all trades shoes I own in this faction. While I won't be attending any suit and tie events in them, these shoes shine with my gorpcore outfits when I'm hitting the trails. They look greatwith my work outfits, with some cuffed Dickies, and they definitely don't seem out of place with my gymwear and even with chinos and a shirt, they surprisingly work. Talk about versatility!
Why do I Keep Coming Back to the Trail Glove? Merrell's commitment to comfort, performance, and durability is exactly why I’ve continued to choose the Trail Glove, even when I’m not out trekking through forests. For me, it’s the perfect balance of being able to feel connected to the ground without compromising on protection or support- given they have a bit more sole than the Vapour Gloves. Plus, I love that it’s a versatile shoe whether I’m running errands, hiking through a local park, or simply walking around the block. I know I can rely on the Trail Glove to get me through the day without issue.
Another reason I’m loyal to Merrell is their commitment to sustainability. The Trail Glove is made from recycled materials that are built to last. I appreciate the longevity of the shoe, which so far, have lasted me the whole year and the sole has yet to wear down.
The Perfect Travel Companion
I’ve traveled across Europe this summer in these and it’s become my go-to shoe for so many different environments because it offers the perfect blend of freedom and performance. Whether I’m trekking through nature or exploring a new neighborhood, I always felt like the
Trail Glove had me covered, no matter where my feet took me. Rain or shine, the shoe performs. Although it's not waterproof, it can dry faster than my Gore-tex boots - perfect for those on and off rainy days. Perhaps not so much for sluggin' it through snow or downpour days.
If you’re looking for a shoe that transitions seamlessly between the trail and the city, that’s comfortable enough to wear all day, and has the durability to last through it all, I highly recommend giving the Merrell Trail Glove a try. Andrew- Perth
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