Trail-Running Shoes Buying Guide

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Enjoy the free feeling of running barefoot with the Merrell Trail Glove 4 Knit women's trail-running shoes. Their 3D socklike construction and 4-way stretch make them feel like one with your feet.
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View the Merrell Trail Glove Product LineView all Merrell Women's Trail-Running ShoesBest Use | Trail Running |
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Trail-Running Shoe Type | Light-Trail |
Running Shoe Cushioning | Barefoot |
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm) | 0 |
Footwear Height | Ankle |
Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
Upper | Synthetic knit |
Lining | Textile |
Midsole | Unavailable |
Outsole | Vibram TC5+ rubber |
Rock Plate | No |
Vegan | Yes |
Weight (Pair) | 12 ounces |
Gender | Women's |
5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | |
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U.S. Women's | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 |
UK | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 |
EU | 35 | 35.5 | 36 | 37 | 37.5 | 38 | 38.5 | 39 | 40 | 40.5 | 41 | 42 | 42.5 | 43 | 43.5 |
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This shoe uses a lace locking system that threads the laces through plastic loops incorporated with the shoe. I have only had these shoes for about 2 months and the laces are shredded on both shoes where they pass through the plastic loops of the lacing system. I run about 3-5 times per week, usually 4-6 miles per run, so they have not seen heavy use. I haven't been wearing them for any other activity except running. I have worn plenty of shoes in the Merrell Barefoot line before that didn't have this lace lock system and they lasted hundreds of miles, so this is a huge disappointment.
I loved my five fingers, but I finally felt that I needed to find a pair of zero drop shoes that might shield me from rocks. These are them. The soles and tread are perfect for running on pavement and trails. The shoes flex a lot, so even when my feet swell later in the day, I never have an issue. Not to mention these are great weightlifting shoes for me. I’d highly recommend to anyone looking for flexible, zero drop, no lace shoes.
I just love how these shoes fit, let me work on my balance and stability in the gym and are something I can wear on an outing with the family. They fit my arch and are so easy to put on. Not a fan of the laces but I am adapting.i would buy them again.
I’ve had problems with walking due to a Knee injury 10 years ago. By switching to these shoes and changing the way I walk, I can now walk 5 miles without problems. I did have some sore muscles initially, because you use your glutes and hamstrings much more. Definitely recommend these shoes, but I also recommend getting on YouTube to see how to walk or run properly without the heel lift.
The toe cap is hard, which left my little toe bleeding. This shoe does not hug your foot. There is no flexibility, and the sole is just plain flat. The thin knit lining at the forefoot of the shoe was thin with not even a hint of cushioning below, (it felt like I could feel the sole of the shoe); therefore, I ended up with calluses on both sides of my lower big toes. Though the lacing seems like a neat idea, it doesn't do much at all to customize the shoe to your foot. Sorry, Merrell, If this had been my first Merrell shoe, I would say it's the worst shoe I ever tried. Love, love the regular Trail Glove 4, but these Knit ones are a huge disappointment.
Just took these on their first trail run. I love them. The soles are tough enough to take rocky trails and gripped well in post-rain conditions. Slipped on with ease and the straps tighten well. I love them!
After breaking a toe several weeks ago I found I kept re-injuring while wearing other shoes. My husband suggested going to REI to try to find something that might work better. We found it in this shoe. I may not get a chance to try running for a while but this is the only shoe I have worn since purchasing it. It's so supportive and comfortable and I haven't had any pain in days. I've worn them for long dog walks to the park and in Tai Chi class and have been very happy. So happy, that I just ordered another color. There isn't anything I would change.
I’ve hiked barefoot for over a decade and trail run fairly often....I have to say that these shoes are amazing. I was drawn to these because of the 3D construction: My feet have been through a lot with the ‘millions’ of times they’ve been stepped on by horses and the dislocated metatarsal/bunion on my right foot as a result. I’m excited that I can keep up my foot strength and integrity while protecting them and supporting them *just* enough. No more special lacing patterns! The arch is comfortable, they’re light but snug, low profile and gorgeous. Looking forward to the miles run in these in my future!
As soon as I tried these on in an REI store, I had to buy them. The fit and feel are wonderful, as if they were made for my somewhat narrow feet. I'm between an 8 and 8 1/2 and glad I went with the larger size. They're comfortable wearing all day and on light hiking trails. I don't run so I can't comment on their performance in that regard. The downsides are minor but annoying. The laces are too long. Seems ridiculous to have to buy new laces for an expensive pair of shoes. The other concern is the design. By eliminating a separate tongue, (one side is longer and flaps over, secured by elastic inside) they're harder to get on and off. The more I wear them, the more this bothers me. I'm considering cutting off the elastic but I'll wait till I've had them a while in case this doesn't work. I wish Merrell went back to a traditional design. Never had a problem with the tongue slipping out in any shoes I've ever owned.
I wanted to compare this Trail Glove to Vapor Glove, my traditional favorite. This trail version has a thicker sole and no laces. It's stretchy but very hard for me to put on. Like the new Vapor, there is no rear tab to make it easier to pull on. The inside roof of the toe box is better because it is nice and smooth. The Vapor has a swatch of material that sticks out. But for my foot, the heavier sole means that the top of my foot hurts when I bend my foot. In summary for this Trail glove, if you like the look, are ok with a regular sole, and love slip ons you will probably like it! I am returning.