Engearment

Merrell Trail Glove 4 Minimalist Shoe – Barefoot Adventure with Vibram Traction

Merrell nailed the barefoot shoe

The Trail Glove 4 is a well built barefoot shoe.  Designed to give the barefoot runner a great option for off-road running.  Benefiting from Vibram sole, the Trail Glove has no problem on the trail – or in the gym. With 3mm of cushion and a wide toe box,  this shoe is made for those who know what they want, know how to use it and appreciate the features.  Let’s jump in.

Vibram traction

Vibram TC5 outsole provides excellent traction on the trail.  It also transferred great ground feel for use in the gym.  I used this shoe as my go-t0 shoe for kettlebell training for several weeks.  Even attended a few certifications and used this shoe (when going barefoot was not an option). I was surprised at how versatile the traction was.  From fall hikes to the concrete jungle – the Vibram TC5 felt great.

Foot Burrito?

Yes, foot burritos.  The Trail Glove 4 sticks to your foot thanks to the unique “burrito” tongue. Well, it is not really a tongue, it is more of the right side of the shoe overlaps the left side and sinches down to keep your foot in place.  When I saw it at OR, it did not make sense.  When I put it on, it totally worked.  Hope other shoes will feature this “burrito tech” in the future.

Lightweight

At 8.9oz per shoe, these are pretty dang light.  This made trail use and gym use a breeze.   For such a secure and well-made shoe, I felt that 8.9oz was impressively light.

Great toe box

One thing I look for in shoes is a wider toe box.  Coming from a fitness background, I think it is important to find shoes that allow your toes to naturally splay. The Merrell’sdo this very well.  They are not obtrusively wide, but wide enough to give your toes a little room to play with.

Review of the Merrell Trail Glove 4 Barefoot Shoe

In conclusion, I feel that the Trail Glove does a great job of providing excellent ground feel while still offering some cushion from ground objects. The burrito wrap is genius and keeps the foot in place.  Wide toe box creates a safe space for your digits.  Vibram outsole grips well on and off road.  Price is very fair at $100.  If you are looking for a lightweight barefoot trail shoe that can just as easily be used in the gym, then this is your shoe. Mens and women’s Trail Glove 4 available.

See also –

Salomon OUTline Hiking Shoe – Gore-Tex and Grip for Your Outdoor Trip

Salomon Sense Ride – All Terrain Comfort