Merrell Trail Glove 3 review

Who should buy the Merrell Trail Glove 3

The Merrel Trail Glove 3 is a great option for:

• a close to barefoot sensation from a minimalist shoe
• runners who want a versatile shoe for runs, hikes, workouts, and daily use

Updates to the Trail Glove 3

• 15% lighter compared to the previous version.
• Enhanced off-road grip, making it ideal for running on varied surfaces.
• Redesigned upper of the shoe to be more breathable and comfortable feel.

Impressive grip

The outsole unit uses the Vibram Outsole TC1 that delivers impressive grip on various surfaces. It also gives added flexibility for an enhanced running experience.

Together with this performance rubber sole is the trail protect plate that offers enough amount of foot protection against sharp stones and rough surfaces.

Trail Glove 3’s minimal cushioning

The shoe uses the 4 mm CMEVA that delivers durable underfoot cushioning. It is lightweight in nature yet offers the maximum shock absorption that a minimalist shoe can provide to keep you well-protected. According to the runners, this layer of cushioning kept them comfortable even on small and sharp rocks. "I can feel rocks but they don't hurt," says one of the runners.

Very durable for a minimalist shoe

The reviewers who have walked and run in the Trail Glove 3 for months (up to 6 months) report that the shoe is holding up very well.

Freedom for the toes

A lot of reviewers found the shoe's toebox to be roomy enough to allow their toes to splay comfortably and feel more at home.

Well-ventilated

The upper uses breathable air mesh that is also durable. It keeps the foot well-ventilated, especially on long runs. The upper of the shoe is as breathable as the Merrell Trail Glove 5.

It works perfectly well with the shoe’s non-removable footbed that is anti-microbial in nature and has the capacity to keep the foot odorless.

Secure foothold

The shoe has TPU Rear Foot Sling that offers reliable heel support. Together with the Merrell Omni-Fit lacing system, this shoe offers a secure and glove-like fit.

Trail Glove 3 makes your feet work

Just like any other minimalist zero-drop shoe, the Trail Glove activates more muscles in your feet and legs which may feel alien if you are used to well-cushioned shoes with raised heels. Many runners have benefited from this Merrell shoe as it gives an extra workout for your muscles and tendons. It helps you achieve more natural running biomechanics.