Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 7 Sneaker Review
The Merrell Men's Trail Glove 7 is a testament to the brand's ongoing commitment to barefoot running enthusiasts. Designed with an emphasis on natural foot positioning, this sneaker offers a true minimalist feel that many outdoor lovers seek. The shoe features a Vibram® EcoStep outsole that wraps around the foot for enhanced grip and connection with the ground, ensuring stability and confidence on various terrains.
With a total stack height of just 14mm, this shoe brilliantly balances minimalism and comfort, allowing you to re-experience the sensation of running barefoot.
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Features
- 100% recycled breathable mesh upper
- Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability
- 100% recycled laces and webbing
- Molded nylon arch shank for support
- Bellows tongue keeps out debris
Pros
- Eco-friendly materials used throughout the design
- Excellent grip with the Vibram® EcoStep outsole
- Lightweight and flexible for a natural movement
- Effective shock absorption thanks to Air Cushion
- Breathable mesh keeps your feet cool
Cons
- Minimalist design may not provide enough cushioning for some runners
- Fit may be narrower compared to traditional sneakers
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Merrell Trail Glove 7 | Altra Escalante 2.5 | New Balance Minimus TR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight | Moderate |
| Stack Height | 14mm | 24mm | 20mm |
| Outsole Material | Vibram® EcoStep | FootPod Technology | Rubber |
| Upper Material | Recycled Mesh | Knit | Synthetic Mesh |
Detailed Review
Comfort: One of the highlights of the Merrell Men's Trail Glove 7 is its lightweight construction combined with the breathable mesh upper. Users have reported that it provides ample flexibility, which is essential for achieving a natural foot movement. However, if you are accustomed to heavily cushioned shoes, the transition might take some time as the shoe is designed to keep you closer to the ground.
Performance: When it comes to performance, the Vibram® EcoStep outsole stands out by providing superior traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The integration of FLEXconnect® dual-directional flex-grooves enhances adaptability to the terrain, making this sneaker suitable for trail runs or hikes.
Durability: With materials like the molded nylon arch shank and robust rubber sole, the Trail Glove 7 proves to be a durable choice for those who put their footwear through rigorous activities. Moreover, the use of recycled components gives the shoe an added edge for environmentally conscious consumers.
Style: Aesthetically, the Monument colorway is appealing for casual wear, seamlessly transitioning from outdoor adventures to everyday outings.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5 | Great flexibility but may lack cushioning for some users. |
| Performance | 5.0 | Outstanding traction and adaptability on various terrains. |
| Durability | 4.5 | High-quality materials ensure lasting use even in tough conditions. |
| Style | 4.0 | Modern design suitable for both trails and casual settings. |
User Reviews
I recently took the Merrell Men's Trail Glove 7 Sneakers on a road trip across the US, and they proved to be an excellent choice for my hiking adventures. As someone who weighs around 230 lbs, finding comfortable hiking footwear can be a challenge, but these sneakers exceeded my expectations. They provided exceptional comfort and support, even after prolonged periods of hiking, which is a testament to their design and cushioning.The versatility of these sneakers was truly put to the test as I traversed various terrains, from deserts and forests to mountain trails. They held up remarkably well in different environments, offering the stability and grip needed for safe and enjoyable hikes. It's rare to find a pair of sneakers that can adapt so well to such a range of conditions, and these Trail Glove 7s did just that.One piece of advice for potential buyers: be cautious when hiking on really dusty trails. The mesh design of the sneakers, while great for breathability, does tend to let in a fair amount of dust. This wasn't a deal-breaker for me, as they are easy to clean, but it's something to consider if you're not keen on the idea of dust getting between your toes.In conclusion, the Merrell Men's Trail Glove 7 Sneakers are a solid choice for anyone looking for durable, comfortable, and versatile hiking footwear. Their performance across various terrains is impressive, and they manage to provide comfort and support even for a heavier individual like myself. Just keep in mind the mesh's susceptibility to dust on certain trails, and you'll be set for a great hiking experience.
Pros: incredible, mountain goat like traction and support with minimal bulk while allowing you to feel the ground. Heel is not overly rigid so can be worn without a layer between heel and shoe. Breathable, functional when wet. Thick supportive upper material that gives firm support but while remaining breathable. Bottom of sole very protective so you will not feel small rocks or roots despite being a zero drop minimalist shoe.Cons: a little snug, especially in toe box. Could be wider without allowing foot to slide around. A little abrasive on top of foot near toes if wearing barefoot (some irritation above 4/5th metatarsal with prolonged use after getting wet). Not very water resistance.Perfect use: short hikes or trail runs on easy to moderate terrain, especially if rocky versus wet/ muddy. Do very well on rocks. Better for runners who foot strike directly underneath.. not a lot of heel cushioning if that's what you need.
I got these Merrell Trail Glove 7 sneakers for walking and some hiking. Around here, the hikes get really muddy and I have slogged and hiked thru some pretty intense mudholes and muddy paths and these flat sneakers did rather well. I did not slip or slide very much.....better than my hiking boots would have done. These sneakers are easy to clean, mostly just rinse/wash them off outside with a water hose or water puddle. Sizing is "as expected" in my case. I may get a second pair of these soon because I like these flat sneakers for hiking about as much as my Merrell Vapor 6 sneakers I also got.
These fit me perfect with athletic wool socks. After long runs my feet and knees feel great!
Merrell has yet to disappoint. Worth the money. Comfortable and lightweight.
Sizing is way off and fit is terrible. Could not wear them. The heel is way too shallow. Size 13 was at least an inch longer than every other 13 I have ever tried. Maybe I received a defective pair or something? I tried the vapor glove and they fit perfect.
Not as roomy as most Merrells
Merrell shoes tend to run narrow, which is great for someone like me with a "B" foot width. This shoe also has plenty of room for a big big toe! The extensive laces allow you to customize the fit. The Vibram soles are perfect for walking, including on gravel. And while practical, the shoes look presentable enough for anything other than formal events.