Our verdict

79
Decent!
The Trail Glove is a famous Merrell minimalist shoe line that gives us a barefoot-like experience. The minimal cushioning allows us to feel the trail while encouraging our feet to move naturally. Bear in mind though that it is best suited for light trails. Aside from ensuring performance, this shoe also follows a better path to sustainability by using recycled and environmentally friendly materials.

Pros

  • Natural ride
  • Lightweight
  • Snug fit
  • Durable
  • Grippy
  • Straight-out-the-box comfort
  • Stable
  • Versatile
  • Sustainable

Cons

  • Less ground feel

Who should buy the Merrell Trail Glove 6 

The Trail Glove 6 from Merrell is best for runners who value a minimalist/barefoot-like sensation when running and walking. Be warned that the shoe offers no cushioning. It can be used for:

  • daily runs and walks
  • moderate to quick-paced runs
  • light trail surfaces

Merrell Trail Glove 6 merrell

Who should NOT buy it

If you're looking for a cushioned running shoe, you can pass up on the Merrell Trail Glove 6.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 tongue

Trail Glove 6 vs Trail Glove 5: What's new

Bloom midsole

Replacing the thin EVA foam from the previous version is the new performance midsole that is made of 10% algae biomass. We are thrilled that it continues to offer lightweight cushioning that we also found to feel soft and responsive.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 cushion

Enhanced lacing

The modified lacing system delivers an improved fit and foot lockdown.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 lacing system

The Trail Glove 6 disappears on foot

The Merrell Trail Glove 6 is a light minimalist shoe, weighing close to the average 7 oz. (200 g) for the category.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 minimalist running shoe

Traction that won't disappoint

We used the shoe on the light trail and paved surfaces and we experienced sufficient grip. Its Vibram outsole also works on wet surfaces.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 outsole

Goodbye, slips! 

The enhanced lacing system offers a tighter, more secure fit than the previous version. We also noticed that the laces are shorter.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 laces

No need to break it in

We can attest that the Trail Glove 6 is a shoe you can wear right out of the box. 

Merrell Trail Glove 6 comfortable

Steady strides comin' through

The TPU reinforcement on the sides holds the foot in place. 

Merrell Trail Glove 6 support

The Merrell Trail Glove 6 can do anything

We also found that these trail shoes can be used for indoor workouts and city runs.

Doesn't hurt the feet, doesn't hurt the environment

The shoe uses sustainable materials including a recycled mesh upper, mesh lining, laces, insole top sheets, and algae biomass midsole.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 toe box

Less ground contact

The shoe lacks a close-to-ground feel. We were disappointed that it felt different from the Trail Glove 3 and 4.

Merrell Trail Glove 6 midsole foam

Table of contents VerdictProsConsWho should buy the Merrell Trail Glove 6Who should NOT buy itTrail Glove 6 vs Trail Glove 5: What's newThe Trail Glove 6 disappears on footTraction that won't disappointGoodbye, slips!No need to break it inSteady strides comin' throughThe Merrell Trail Glove 6 can do anythingDoesn't hurt the feet, doesn't hurt the environmentLess ground contact
Overview