Merrell Bare Access 4 review

Who should buy the Merrell Bare Access 4

The Merrell Bare Access 4 is a great addition for high-mileage runners. Its lightweight, flexible, and responsive sole features deliver optimal performance suitable for tempo and track training sessions. For its affordable price, this neutral running shoe offers great value for your money.

Updates to the Access 4

• More robust mesh that’s full-bodied and durable than the previous version.
• Reduced amount of stitching and stitched-on layers on top of its upper, with seamless construction to fully give a non-irritating wearing experience for the foot.
• Synthetic overlays are streamlined to deliver a super lightweight running experience.
• Midsole unit is thicker and more responsive.
• Outsole delivers durable protection for the wearer.

Durable protection from wear and tear 

This running shoe features the Bare Access Outsole for its external layer. It has a rubber foundation for added durability, but its main technology is the Vibram, which is a set of pods that give durable protection from wear & tear, as well as traction over the surfaces.

Flex grooves in the forefoot allow the runner to have a surer and more responsive toe-off. It’s a forgiving outsole unit that allows the foot to travel through the gait cycle with ease and comfort.

Access 4 robust mid-sole technology

The MBound is a midsole technology that’s meant to deliver surface feedback to the foot of the runner. While giving cushioning, it lets the runner have a feel of the surface, making the running experience seem closer to the ground.

The CMEVA or the compression-molded Ethylene vinyl acetate is a mid-sole foam that’s of high quality.

It carries the foot well and doesn’t break down easily, even after many uses. Its durability lets the runner use this shoe often with trust that the mid-sole will remain robust.

Merrell Fresh anti-microbial coating

The upper unit makes use of a mix between Air Mesh and Synthetic Leather. It makes a more durable and full-bodied upper that’s breathable and supportive. It doesn’t smother the foot because it’s slightly pliable and responsive.

The overlay system is made from TPU. It’s a durable add-on to the upper, but it doesn’t increase the shoe’s overall weight. It helps the fabric wrap around the foot and makes the runner feel snug and secure.

The inner sleeve has been treated with the M-Select Fresh anti-microbial coating. It eliminates bacteria that cause bad odors, thus making the interior environment cleaner and healthier for the foot.

An EVA insole has been added on top of the mid-sole. It adds a bit more cushioning to the foot. It even features the M-Select Fresh treatment to maintain a bacteria-free platform on which to rest the foot.