12 best merrell minimalist shoes
Merrell is a well-known brand that offers a variety of footwear, including minimalist shoes.Minimalist shoes are designed to provide a barefoot-like feel while still offering some protection and support for your feet. Here are some key points about Merrell minimalist shoes:
Barefoot Feel: Merrell's minimalist shoes are designed to mimic the experience of walking or running barefoot. They typically have thin soles that allow for better ground feel and natural movement of the feet.
Lightweight: These shoes are often lightweight, which can make them comfortable for activities like hiking, trail running, or everyday wear.
Zero Drop: Merrell minimalist shoes typically feature a zero-drop design, which means that the heel and forefoot are at the same level. This promotes a more natural foot strike and posture.
Wide Toe Box: Many of Merrell's minimalist shoe models have a wide toe box. This design allows your toes to splay naturally, which can enhance stability and comfort.
Vibram Outsoles: Some Merrell minimalist shoes use Vibram rubber outsoles for durability and traction. Vibram is a well-regarded brand in the outdoor footwear industry.
Breathable Materials: Merrell often uses breathable and lightweight materials in their minimalist shoe designs to keep your feet comfortable during activities.
Versatility: Merrell offers a range of minimalist shoe styles, including trail runners, hiking shoes, and casual options. This allows you to choose a shoe that suits your specific needs and preferences.
Durability: While minimalist shoes are designed for a more natural feel, Merrell still places a strong emphasis on durability to ensure that their shoes can withstand various outdoor activities.
It's important to note that the availability and specific models of Merrell minimalist shoes may vary over time, so it's a good idea to check the latest offerings on their official website or at authorized retailers if you are interested in purchasing a pair.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best merrell minimalist shoes on the market
Merrell Women's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker
Merrell
Product description
Created by studying the foot in motion, this trainer is designed to enhance the foot’s natural ability to stabilize the body during rapid changes in movement.
- Textile and Synthetic
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Vibram TC5+
- Merrell Barefoot 2 construction for enhanced proprioception and stability during variable movement
User questions & answers
| Question: | Again, re color-I see you “choose the color tab” but the previous q was good bc the “red” color tab has NO red in the shoe- it is all blue. advise |
| Answer: | Hi, so the color is not Red. It is more of a Coral. The front part of the sole is the Coral color, and there is also accent to the darker blue part of the sole/shoe with the Coral. The Merrill Logo at the back of the shoe is coral. The combination of light lighter blue and darker blue and Coral is quite nice. I get so many compliments on the shoe. Love love them. They are light, well made, comfy, and FUN. |
| Question: | What’s the stack height on these shoes |
| Answer: | Stack height of the trail glove 5 is 11.5 mm as was the trail glove 4. Trail glove 3 was 10.5 mm |
| Question: | Is this a zero drop shoe. Is there cushioning |
| Answer: | Hi. This feels very much like a zero drop shoe (which is one of the reasons I got it). And yes, I can feel cushioning. I walk a lot in the city and I need “barefoot” type of footwear that can also provide support and cushioning due to all the pavement-walking. I hope that helps. |
| Question: | These say m us? M mean men’s |
| Answer: | No it means Medium width. For me they fit well. I have a wider foot so I always go up one 1/2 size to ensure a wide enough fit |
Product features
BAREFOOT
Barefoot shape with a glove-like fit providing natural comfort with minimalist construction. Zero drop from heel to toe for a natural stride.
VEGAN FRIENDLY
Feel Good. Look Good. Our vegan friendly footwear uses 0% animal products.
VIBRAM
High-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability and slip resistance providing confidence on your feet.
Recycled Materials
Repurposing the old to make a better new.
Water Conservation
Every drop counts so we believe in the responsibility to use water thoughtfully.
Durability
Creating products that hold up to extensive wear.
Waste Not
Reducing landfill contribution through recycling, efficiencies, and innovation.
Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 4 Sneaker
Merrell
Product description
Created by studying the foot in motion, this trainer is designed to enhance the foot’s natural ability to stabilize the body during Rapid changes in movement.
- 100% Fabric or Textile
- Imported
- Vibram sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Mesh Upper- Allows air to penetrate the fabric for a cool, comfortable environment.
- M-Select FRESH- Antimicrobial agents reduce shoe odour for a fresher for longer feeling.
- Hyperlock TPU Film Heel Counter- Locked-in, secure feel.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do you wear socks with these |
| Answer: | Yes, I only ever wear socks with these (never barefoot) and they're just fine. I don't have particularly wide feet so the wide toe box doesn't do much for me. I wear a medium thickness sock; the sock helps my foot conform better to the shoe interior, fwiw. If you find they're snug with socks for you, you could get a thin/sport-type sock that may help. |
| Question: | what happened if You use this shoes in water no stink |
| Answer: | Hi. I run on the beach a bunch with local 5k races. Shoe never really smelled it just started to breakdown after awhile with the salt water I guess. The rubber sole and shoe eventually separated. Great shoe though |
| Question: | Can you fit a small arch support insert in this |
| Answer: | Yes you can insert arch support, or just wear thick socks and you'll be fine. Myself the reason I do choiced the VG because cannot wear a rigid or shoes with pointy toe box / and thick sole. |
| Question: | Would you suggest this shoe for a road marathon or just trail running |
| Answer: | As with any barefoot style shoe, they take time to get used to. Work yourself up to hardtop running. Start small. I trained for and ran the Army Ten Miler in barefoot shoes 3 times with no issues. |
Merrell Women's Move Glove Fitness Shoes, US 8.5
Merrell
Product description
This minimal trainer provide little between you and the ground for maximum freedom and connection underfoot.
- Synthetic sole
- style: Fitness
- outer material: Synthetic
- closure type: Lace-Up
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do these have a removable insole |
| Answer: | Insoles are not removable, I did add an arch support tho and I love them |
| Question: | Do they have a warranty |
| Answer: | The only thing I know of is Merrell does warranty against defects., but in that case you would prob just return them to amazon anyway. |
| Question: | Are these machine washable |
| Answer: | I have never washed mine, but I don't see why you couldn't. |
Product features
Hike
From day trips to week-long backpacking treks, we have the best hiking shoes and boots to support your next outdoor excursion.
Trail Running
Hit the trails and explore beyond the beaten path with training and trail running shoes that fit your needs and your environment.
Casual
Style meets outdoor performance with versatile casual shoes and sandals with trail-built comfort you can trust.
Work
Protect your feet from the daily grind with work boots designed to meet the toughest demands while being comfortable enough to wear every day.
Merrell Men's Trail Glove 5 Sneaker
Merrell
Product description
Created by studying the foot in motion, this trainer is designed to enhance the foot’s natural ability to stabilize the body during Rapid changes in movement.
- Textile and Synthetic
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Mesh Upper- Allows air to penetrate the fabric for a cool, comfortable environment.
- M-Select FRESH- Antimicrobial agents reduce shoe odour for a fresher for longer feeling.
- Hyperlock TPU Film Heel Counter- Locked-in, secure feel.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do you have any green that isn't Goose Turd or Neon |
| Answer: | You summed it up! lol. i have not seen any other green colors either. your always safe with black or gray. |
| Question: | I'm in outside sales, driving and standing on concrete all day. but also lots of walking. Are these a good fit for that |
| Answer: | These are good for very casual use but not for standing on concrete or walking especially if you have a larger frame |
| Question: | Are these shoes bendable like the barefoot shoes |
| Answer: | Hello, These shoes are light and fairly bendable, However they are designed as a trail running shoe and do have a thicker sole to protect from underfoot debris you might step on while running. |
| Question: | Are these okay on pavement |
| Answer: | Nnot an aggressive tread. I often run them on pavement. They’re minimalist, though, so not much cushioning. |
Product features
BAREFOOT
Barefoot shape with a glove-like fit providing natural comfort with minimalist construction. Zero drop from heel to toe for a natural stride.
VEGAN FRIENDLY
Feel Good. Look Good. Our vegan friendly footwear uses 0% animal products.
VIBRAM
High-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability and slip resistance providing confidence on your feet.
Recycled Materials
Repurposing the old to make a better new.
Water Conservation
Every drop counts so we believe in the responsibility to use water thoughtfully.
Durability
Creating products that hold up to extensive wear.
Waste Not
Reducing landfill contribution through recycling, efficiencies, and innovation.
Merrell Men's Bare Access Flex 2 Sneaker
Merrell
Product description
This neutral trainer features shock-absorbing cushioning foam for comfort and durability during high intensity activity.
- 100% Fabric or Textile
- Imported
- Vibram sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Comfort
- Shock-Absorbing
User questions & answers
| Question: | Has the issue with the previous Bare Access Flex where the shoe splits open at either side of the toe box been fixed on these |
| Answer: | Merrill honored the shoe warranty. The Amazon seller did not. |
| Question: | How thick is the sole and how close is it to zero drop |
| Answer: | Sorry, I don't know what zero drop is. I do know the sole pulled away from the shoe in the first couple of months. I went direct to Merrell and they replaced them. |
| Question: | Can you wear socks with these |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | Are these comfortable for standing in all day on cement |
| Answer: | These are comfortable shoes for wider feet, but they are a minimalist shoe so there is less cushioning in the sole than a traditional sneaker so probably not the beat option for standing on concrete all day. |
Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner
Merrell Footwear
Product description
Barefoot shoe
- 100% Mesh, TPU
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Mesh & TPU upper
- Trailprotect pad for underfoot protection
- Breathable mesh lining
- Vibram TC5 outsole
- Stack height (heel/toe): 6.5mm; footbed: 0mm; insole: 3mm; midsole: 0mm; sole: 1.5web, 2mm lugs
User questions & answers
| Question: | I had the uppers on my vapor glove 2s tear near the sole after a couple months. is the vapor glove 3 any more durable in this department |
| Answer: | I had the same problem on my Vapor Glove 2’s- I’ve only had the 3’s a few weeks but they are much more sturdily built. We’ll see if we have any tearing issues like the 2’s did. |
| Question: | How would these shoes do for lifting |
| Answer: | I use them and they work well, completely flat so it is like you are standing in your socks. There is zero support for your ankles though. Also, if you happen to drop a weight or have a mishap around your feet with one, there isn't any protection for you feet as they are super thin shoes. |
| Question: | Should my toe be touching the toe box. First time ever buyn shoes like this, so I don't know how much room should be between tooe and the of the shoe |
| Answer: | Regarding sizing, they do fit larger (though according to the Merrell foot length/shoe size chart, these are true-to-size). While the bare access 4's and bare access flex fit the same as my other shoes (Altras, Brooks, Newton, New Balance), and the trail glove 4's fit about a half size larger than my regular shoes, the vapor glove 3's fit about a half-to-whole size larger. My impression is Merrell deliberately sized them larger than their other shoes (particularly in the toe area), so as to allow natural expansion of the foot which may happen over time when running in shoes the more "barefoot" they are. I certainly experienced this in my first 7 mile run in them, as when i tried my trail glove 4's after running in my Vapor Glove 3's, my toes were touching the toe guard. I usually hesitate from sizing down, because even when i wear my size or half size smaller in many shoes, I often experience toe-bleeding, but not the case with these. My guess is that the reviews complaining of premature tearing in the forefoot area of the upper may have to do with customers purchasing them without sizing down, which causes the shoe to bend where it is not reinforced or designed to bend as much. A whole size down would give a more snug fit and lighter shoe, though going a half size down still allows a supportive fit. I'm not sure how the sizing differential scales up with larger sizes, but I'd recommend 1/2 size smaller. And as a usual disclaimer with barefoot and minimalist running shoes, if you are new to barefoot running, take the necessary precautions (i.e. start off with lower mileage, to give your body time to adjust, and focus on proper running form such as proper cadence and foot placement). |
| Question: | How does the sizing compare to the Vapor Glove |
| Answer: | I wore a 9 in the original vapor glove and also in the vapor glove 2. 9 was way too small in the vapor glove 3. |
Product features
BAREFOOT
Barefoot shape with a glove-like fit providing natural comfort with minimalist construction. Zero drop from heel to toe for a natural stride.
VEGAN FRIENDLY
Feel Good. Look Good. Our vegan friendly footwear uses 0% animal products.
VIBRAM
High-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability and slip resistance providing confidence on your feet.
Recycled Materials
Repurposing the old to make a better new.
Water Conservation
Every drop counts so we believe in the responsibility to use water thoughtfully.
Durability
Creating products that hold up to extensive wear.
Waste Not
Reducing landfill contribution through recycling, efficiencies, and innovation.
Merrell Women's Bare Access XTR Trail Running Shoe
Merrell
Product description
This trail runner features 0 heel-to-toe offset, a moderate amount of shock-absorbing foam and a sticky Vibram® outsole enhances ground connection and agility for fast runs on light to moderate trails.
- mesh
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Mesh and TPU upper
- Traditional lace closure
- Hyperlock TPU film heel counter for security
- Breathable mesh lining
- Integrated footbed
Merrell Women's Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner
Merrell
Product description
Trail running shoe
- 100% Fabric or Textile
- Imported
- Vibram sole
- Mesh Upper
- Zero Drop
- Barefoot Technology
- Vibram Outsole
- Durable
User questions & answers
| Question: | Can anyone compare the vapor glove to the Bare Acces? (Eapecially the sole/flexibility and just city walking |
| Answer: | The sole is perfect for a city walking. |
| Question: | Hello, are these supportive (arch and heel). if not good arch support, can you add an insole |
| Answer: | Definitely not a supportive shoe, neither the arch or the heel. If you have a narrow foot you could possibly add a very thin insole...maybe. I was definitely disappointed with my purchase of these shoes. I wish I would have just returned them. |
| Question: | Is it hard to drive a car wearing these |
| Answer: | I happened to be browsing for my wife and saw this question. I have the mens version and I actually prefer driving in these shoes out of all of my shoes. Being a car enthusiast. Most driving shoes are very close to barefoot shoes. They feel really nice on the pedals, especially with a stick shift. Easy to maneuver your feet and shift quickly. |
| Question: | How are these for a walking shoe |
| Answer: | Yes! They are the most comfortable walking shoe I've ever owned. I've purchased these shoes consistently for the past 6 years and love them! |
Merrell Men's Bare Access Flex Sneaker
Merrell Footwear
Product description
Powered by FLEXconnect™ for hybrid performance—experience ultimate versatility, comfort, and ground connection on the trail, road, and beyond.
- 100% Textile and Synthetic
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Mesh & TPU upper
- Integrated EVA footbed
- Stack height 14.2mm
- Flexconnect technology for stability
- Breathable mesh lining
User questions & answers
| Question: | Can the arch supports be removed |
| Answer: | no, there is nothing removable in these shoes. |
| Question: | I am looking for a shoe for my dad. He has wide feet. Does anyone have any experience with the sizes? Did you have to buy a size larger/smaller |
| Answer: | I have 2 pair of these which I bought 1/2 size smaller than other similar MERRELL shoes (Trail Gloves). I have somewhat wide feet and these are comfortable for me on long hikes. |
| Question: | Are the accents on the Black shoe Red or Orange |
| Answer: | Mine are black and gray without any highlight |
| Question: | what is the heel to toe drop |
| Answer: | Zero-drop as reviewed by 'Competitor' magazine, p.12, June 2017, i.e. "Heel-to-Toe Offset: 0mm". |
Product features
BAREFOOT
Barefoot shape with a glove-like fit providing natural comfort with minimalist construction. Zero drop from heel to toe for a natural stride.
FLEXCONNECT
Hyperlock heel for security during descents and sharp turns. Dual-directional flex groove midsole for agility and stability. Sticky, anatomical lugs for superior traction.
M Select GRIP
Outsoles that deliver durable, highly slip-resistant stability on wet and dry ground, over mixed terrain.
Recycled Materials
Repurposing the old to make a better new.
Water Conservation
Every drop counts so we believe in the responsibility to use water thoughtfully.
Durability
Creating products that hold up to extensive wear.
Waste Not
Reducing landfill contribution through recycling, efficiencies, and innovation.
Merrell Men's Zion Mid Wp Hiking Boot
Merrell
Product description
Built on a trail running platform for a sneaker fit, this hiker has a ballistic mesh & durable leather upper and Vibram Megagrip outsole for aggressive grip on every terrain. For all the memories ahead.
- 100% Leather
- Made in USA or Imported
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately Ankle from arch
- Boot opening measures approximately 4" around
- M Select DRY impermeable membrane seals out water and lets moisture escape
- Waterproof full grain leather and mesh upper
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are the insoles removable |
| Answer: | Yup. they are indeed removable |
| Question: | where is the men's version |
| Answer: | Hello again, looks like there is a mistake with the category for the shoe. We are working on the issue. |
| Question: | How much do they weigh |
| Answer: | I do not have a device to weigh them, but I would estimate about 1 lb. |
| Question: | are these available in wide widths |
| Answer: | Not that I have seen. I usually wear a 9 or 9.5 wide depending on the brand, but getting a size 10 made up for the width comfortably. |
Merrell Women's Glove 4 Trail Runner
Merrell
Product description
Trail running shoe
- 100% textile and synthetic
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Mesh Upper, Breathable mesh lining
- Zero Drop/4MM Cushion
- Trail Protect pad offers underfoot protection
- Vibram Outsole
- Durable
User questions & answers
| Question: | If I am typically a 7.5 in just about every shoe, would I be in these as well |
| Answer: | Good question! I have many pairs of these shoes, and I wear them when walking trails and on city walks, usually 6-10 miles. Never gotten a blister. I would get a size 8. |
| Question: | Would these shoes be a good option for road running |
| Answer: | I have 3 pairs of these shoes. They are my favorite running shoe. I use them for road, trail and treadmill runs. They are a “barefoot” type shoe. |
| Question: | Do most people wear sock with these shoes? What kind of socks |
| Answer: | I wear a very thin sock sometimes or just go barefoot. Either way it’s very comfortable. |
| Question: | Are these true to size |
| Answer: | I think they run short, but then again I thought the earliest Merrell barefoot shoes ran short. I had to go up a half size with this shoe to ensure that my toes had ample room and didn't bump up against the tip of the shoe. That said, I love these shoes and am thinking about getting a second pair. BTW, I am not a runner. I buy barefoot/zero heel lift shoes whenever possible because they are much less likely to aggravate the bunion on my left foot. I bought a pair of these in the navy/black color at REI two days before starting a 2.5 week trip to Europe in September. The style in a dark color is more subtle than most athletic shoes and the slim, sleek construction takes up minimal room in luggage. I wore these shoes 95% of the trip, walking 5-10 miles each day in good weather and light drizzle/rainfall without any foot fatigue or irritation. The textured soles were great on slippery surfaces (an only rarely pick up a small pebble); the flat grossgrain-like stretchy ribbon laces never came untied; and the shoes still look practically unworn. I hope Merrell keeps these shoes in their lineup for many years. |
Product features
BAREFOOT
Barefoot shape with a glove-like fit providing natural comfort with minimalist construction. Zero drop from heel to toe for a natural stride.
VEGAN FRIENDLY
Feel Good. Look Good. Our vegan friendly footwear uses 0% animal products.
VIBRAM
High-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability and slip resistance providing confidence on your feet.
Recycled Materials
Repurposing the old to make a better new.
Water Conservation
Every drop counts so we believe in the responsibility to use water thoughtfully.
Durability
Creating products that hold up to extensive wear.
Waste Not
Reducing landfill contribution through recycling, efficiencies, and innovation.
Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 3 Luna Leather Sneaker
Merrell
Product description
Minimal look. Maximum performance. This barefoot shoe has a sock-like feel for a locked-down fit, plus a Vibram® sole with nearly zero ground-to-foot tion
- 100% Leather
- Imported
- Vibram sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Vibram TC5+
- TrailProtect pad offers underfoot protection
- Soft full grain leather upper
User questions & answers
| Question: | I'm a delivery driver and also work in a warehouse most of the day. Would these be able to stand up well to warehouse standards |
| Answer: | I have the vapor glove, and stand/work for 12hrs a day on concrete in them. You will not have toe protection from pinch or crush dangers that you encounter in most warehouses, but otherwise you should be fine. |
| Question: | Do these work for wide feet |
| Answer: | Yes. The toe boxes are adequately wide. |
| Question: | Is this men’s or women’s |
| Answer: | This appears to be for men. |
| Question: | I am trying to purchase this item. it is listed as a men's shoe. when i put it into my cart it becomes a woman's shoe. which is it |
| Answer: | The Merrell website lists this shoe as a men’s product. |
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