The Merrell Trail Glove 7 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Merrell Trail Glove 7 is a minimalist, zero-drop running shoe designed for trail enthusiasts. This shoe is ideal for both beginners and experienced barefoot runners due to its neutral stance and flexible construction.

Lab testing reveals a durable upper with a weight of 240 grams, providing reliable protection while maintaining agility. The firm 31.5 HA foam translates to a stable platform that enhances performance during cornering.

Equipped with a Vibram outsole, the Merrell Trail Glove 7 offers notable grip on various terrains, although some concerns regarding the outsole's durability were noted. Overall, this shoe serves as a versatile companion for those seeking a minimalist experience in running and hiking.


Pros

  • Authentic minimalist experience
  • Genuine zero-drop design
  • Provides a good amount of cushioning
  • Doubles as hiking and walking shoe
  • Sturdy and long-lasting upper
  • Perfect for summer adventures
  • Exceptionally flexible
  • Super quick and agile on corners
  • Ideal for both experts and beginners

Cons

  • Completely unsuitable for winter conditions
  • Outsole durability is a letdown
  • Might be excessively narrow for some runners

Key Features

  • Waterproof: Equipped with a water-repellent GORE-TEX membrane to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
  • Barefoot Design: Follows Merrell's Barefoot 2 construction, promoting a natural foot position and enhancing ground feel.
  • Outsole: Features Vibram EcoStep outsoles made with 30% recycled rubber for excellent grip and durability.
  • Midsole: Incorporates FloatPro Foam for lightweight cushioning and improved comfort during long walks or runs.
  • Vegan-Friendly: Constructed without any animal products, suitable for vegan users.

Specifications

  • Closure type: Lace-Up
  • Available Size: 8.5 UK
  • Color: Tahoe Monument

Merrell Trail Glove 7 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Merrell Trail Glove 7 Altra Superior 6 Altra Outroad 3 Xero Shoes Scrambler Low
Price $120 $130 $130 $150
Trail terrain Light Light Light Light
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 7.8 oz / 221g 9.6 oz / 272g 9.2 oz / 261g 9.2 oz / 261g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 0.1 mm 0.1 mm 0.6 mm -0.1 mm
Strike pattern Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size True to size Slightly small Slightly small True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Balanced Balanced Firm
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Normal Normal Small
Toebox durability Decent Very bad Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Bad Decent Bad Decent
Outsole durability Decent Good Bad Decent
Breathability Moderate Breathable Warm Breathable
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Wide Wide Wide
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Flexible Moderate Moderate Flexible
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Flexible Flexible Flexible
Lug depth 2.5 mm 3.3 mm 1.5 mm 2.7 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 16.1 mm 22.1 mm 23.8 mm 16.3 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 16.0 mm 22.0 mm 23.2 mm 16.4 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons Summer All seasons Summer
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Bottom 38% Bottom 12% Bottom 21% Top 33%
Popularity Top 45% Bottom 29% Bottom 26% Bottom 8%