Merrell Trail Glove 7

The upper of the Merrell Trail Glove 7 is crafted with a high-quality mesh that balances breathability and durability. The shoe's design includes a fully-gusseted tongue, which helps keep debris out while running on trails. Despite the mesh's thickness, the shoe performs well in breathability tests, making it a suitable option for summer adventures. However, the upper's stretchiness is minimal, which contributes to the shoe's overall stability but may affect the fit for some runners.

The midsole of the Merrell Trail Glove 7 features 16.1mm of FloatPro EVA foam, providing a cushioning that is comfortable yet minimalistic. The shoe's true zero-drop design is consistent with its aim to deliver a natural running experience. In cold conditions, the midsole maintains its softness, ensuring consistent performance across different temperatures.

The outsole of the Merrell Trail Glove 7, made with Vibram EcoStep Recycle compound, offers excellent grip on trails. However, its durability on hard surfaces like concrete is a concern, as it may wear out more quickly than expected. The outsole's thickness is relatively thin at 1.8mm, which is in line with the shoe's minimalist design but contributes to the durability issue.

The Merrell Trail Glove 7 has a narrow design, particularly in the toebox, which may not suit runners with wider feet. The shoe's foot-shaped design and fully-gusseted tongue contribute to a secure fit, which is essential for trail running. While the fit is snug, it is not overly tight, allowing for some room in the big toe area.

Despite its minimalist design, the Merrell Trail Glove 7 does not skimp on comfort. The upper is well-padded, and the shoe provides a good amount of cushioning for a barefoot-like shoe. The absence of a heel tab and a non-removable insole are consistent with the shoe's streamlined approach to design.

The cushioning in the Merrell Trail Glove 7 is moderate, with a heel stack of 16.1mm and a forefoot stack of 16mm. This cushioning strikes a balance between providing comfort and maintaining a close-to-ground feel. The shoe's insole is thinner than average, which is typical for minimalist footwear.

The Merrell Trail Glove 7's upper features a dual-layer mesh filled with ventilation holes, ensuring breathability without compromising the shoe's structure. The breathability is particularly impressive given the mesh's thickness, making the shoe a strong candidate for warm weather running.

The Trail Glove 7's stability is notable, especially when taking corners. Its firm midsole and narrow build contribute to a stable ride, despite the shoe's minimalist design. The lack of a heel counter and low torsional rigidity enhance the natural running experience while maintaining stability.

While the upper of the Merrell Trail Glove 7 is sturdy and long-lasting, the outsole's durability is a concern when used on hard surfaces. The protective piece integrated into the toebox helps shield it from wear, but the overall outsole may not withstand prolonged use on asphalt.

The grip of the Merrell Trail Glove 7 is one of its standout features, thanks to the Vibram outsole. The lug depth and design provide reliable traction on trails, making it a suitable choice for runners who prioritize grip in their trail running shoes.

The Merrell Trail Glove 7 is designed for runners with experience in minimalist running. Newcomers to this style may want to start with a transitional shoe before moving to a true minimalist design like the Trail Glove 7.

Yes, the Merrell Trail Glove 7 can double as a hiking and walking shoe, making it a versatile option for various outdoor activities.

The Merrell Trail Glove 7's Vibram outsole provides excellent grip, making it suitable for wet trail conditions. However, its breathability focus may not make it the best option for very wet or winter conditions.

The Merrell Trail Glove 7 incorporates recycled materials in its construction, aligning with sustainable practices and making it a more environmentally friendly choice.