The Merrell Women’s Trail Glove 5 Sneaker is an innovative trail running shoe that allows you to connect with the terrain while still providing protection and stability. This minimalist shoe is perfect for women looking to improve proprioception and strengthen feet muscles while enjoying the trails.
Designed to Enhance Natural Foot Motion
Merrell designed the Trail Glove 5 by studying how the foot moves naturally. The shoe features a 0mm heel drop which promotes proper posture and alignment. This “barefoot” design allows your foot to flex and move freely without constraint.
The foot-shaped toe box gives toes plenty of room to splay and grip. This allows your feet to stabilize your body on uneven trails. The contoured arch and heel cup keep your foot secure while allowing natural motion.
Lightweight Mesh and Synthetic Upper
The Trail Glove 5 upper features a flexible mesh fabric that conforms to your foot. Strategically placed thermoplastic polyurethane overlays protect against abrasion while allowing airflow. The lightweight upper construction helps keep feet cool and dry. Traditional laces and a hyperlock heel counter provide a secure fit. At just 6 ounces, the Trail Glove 5 is so light you’ll barely notice it on your foot.
Durable Vibram Outsole for Traction
Underfoot, a Vibram TC5+ outsole provides excellent grip on both wet and muddy trails. Deep lugs, 3mm in the forefoot and 5mm in the heel, give you traction for climbing and descending. Flex grooves in the rubber allow your foot to move naturally from heel strike to toe-off. The minimal, flexible sole lets you feel the ground. This improves proprioception and engages stabilizing muscles as you encounter rocks and roots. A TrailProtect pad offers underfoot protection from bruising on more rugged terrain.
Quick-Drying Mesh Lining
Inside the Trail Glove 5, a breathable mesh lining helps wick moisture to keep feet dry. It’s also treated with M Select FRESH antimicrobial agents to prevent odor buildup. This lets you comfortably wear the shoe without socks and further enhance ground feel. A molded nylon arch shank provides gentle support, while the 0mm footbed brings you close to the trail. The 4mm EVA midsole offers just enough cushioning to smooth out the ride without impeding natural motion.
Made for Trail Running and Hiking
While suitable for everyday wear, the Trail Glove 5 excels at fast-paced activities like trail running, hiking, fitness classes and more. The barefoot feel connects you to the trail and lets you react quickly to changes in terrain. It also strengthens feet and lower leg muscles to make you a better runner. Thin soles and minimal cushioning do sacrifice some comfort and protection compared to a traditional trail runner. So the Trail Glove 5 may not be the best choice for all-day hiking with a heavy pack over very rocky trails.
Choose the Right Size for Your Feet
Since barefoot shoes fit differently than conventional shoes, sizing can be tricky. Merrell recommends ordering a half size up from your regular shoe size if you’ll be wearing the Trail Glove 5 with socks. For a true sockless fit, order a full size larger. Trying both your normal size and a half size up is best to find the ideal balance of roomy toe box and secure heel. Consider sizing up if you have wider feet. Breaking in the Trail Glove 5 may take some time as your feet adjust to the zero drop design.
Unleash Your Inner Adventurer
In summary, the Merrell Trail Glove 5 sneaker is a liberation for your feet! The barefoot design brings you closer to the trails and engages your feet in a natural gait. While not as cushioned as a traditional trail runner, the flexible sole and foot-shaped toe box encourage proper form and strengthen stabilizing muscles. Breathable mesh keeps your feet cool mile after mile. For women seeking a minimalist trail running shoe that promotes proprioception and freedom of motion, the Trail Glove 5 is an excellent choice. Slip them on and let your inner adventurer run wild on the trails!