Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 6 Leather

Detailed Review

The Men’s Trail Glove 6 Leather proves that style, comfort, and minimalism don’t have to be compromised. Designed specifically for trail running, the Trail Glove 6 has many of the characteristics one would expect from zero-drop, minimalist shoes.

Made from Recycled Materials

The Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 6 is made from recycled materials. More specifically, 100% of the laces are recycled, 40% of the mesh lining is recycled, the top sheet is 100% recycled, and the BLOOM® performance midsole foam contains 10% algae biomass. Its Vibram outsole is also made from 30% recycled rubber.

The soft leather upper adds extra flexibility and durability, while the breathable mesh lining helps provide a comfortable, cool environment for the wearer’s feet.

The Merrel Trail Glove 6 is also designed with M-Select FRESH Antimicrobial agents that help reduce shoe odor and to keep the user feeling fresher, for longer. However, several users had issues with the odor that stinks from the shoes after wearing them a couple of times.

Durability & Protection

One of the most distinctive features of the Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 6 is its TrailProtect Pad, which improves underfoot comfort and protection during challenging off-road terrain. Several users love how the shoe provides a good balance of ground feel and protection against sharp objects.

A good number of Merrell Trail Glove 6 reviews also liked how the new trail glove is made of leather as it provides more durability. However, some users complained about how the tread comes off only after a few uses. 

Several Merrell Glove 6 users also noticed how the soles started to fall off and how the bottom rubber felt thin after a while. 

The pressure is smoothly distributed when walking on small rocks and it has good traction when walking on grassy slopes. This can be attributed to the TrailProtect Pad and Barefoot 2 Construction which enhances proprioception and stability during variable movements of the wearer.

Design & Usage

The Men’s Trail Glove 6 Leather is by far the most stylish of the trail glove series. Several Merrell Trail Glove 6 reviews mentioned how the shoes have impeccable finishes and very interesting aesthetics.

It can also be used for different activities, including trail running, jogging, walking, and daily use. Several users appreciate how it is a truly multitasking shoe.

It also goes well with virtually any outfit. Some reviews mentioned they liked it best for work, and some others liked how it went well with their casual outfit and even when going to the gym.

Comfort & Grip

Since the Merrell Trail Glove 6 release date, it has garnered mixed reviews regarding the comfort level the shoe provides. Merrell combines comfort and grip with a Vibram TC5+ outsole and a TrailProtect pad in one design.

The Vibram TC5+ technology gives these shoes stability in all terrains. As there are no lugs under the arch, the Vibram outsole allows the foot to bend naturally, making it more comfortable. Even in extreme temperatures, the advanced rubber compound provides solid footing on wet or dry surfaces, ensuring traction and confidence wherever you go. 

The major issue with this shoe, according to several reviews, is the excessive arch support. Many find the shoe uncomfortable because of this feature. There have even been complaints of foot pain. Some Merrell Glove 6 users even mentioned how it does not qualify as a barefoot shoe. 

A good number of reviews, however, say this was not the case. Some users may find the arch support uncomfortable as it does not feel minimalist, but it makes a lot of sense if you use it for trails.

Fit

Featuring a full lace-up system, the Trail Glove 6 shoes are built for an adjustable fit and added security and a Hyperlock TPU Film Heel Counter for a locked-in, more secure feel.

When it comes to sizing, the Merrel Trail Glove 6 Leather is available in both men’s and women’s sizes. Several Trail Glove 6 reviews mentioned how it could be challenging for those with wider feet. The toe box is too narrow, but those with really skinny feet may be able to enjoy this shoe.

Trail glove lovers saw how Trail Glove 6 is different from Trail Gloves 4 and 5. There are reviews on how Trail Glove 6 has a narrower toe box compared to previous models. It’s tighter and can be uncomfortable for those with wider feet.

Several users, however, found that it could only feel snug at first but it loosens up after a few uses. The Trail Glove 6 does not have the same fit as previous models, and many users found the fit at least a full size smaller.

Performance

Solid, secure, and good-looking trail shoes, the Trail Glove 6 can be worn running, hiking, around town, cycling, and even in the snow. The shoes are right in the middle between a true barefoot shoe and something that offers a bit more support—but without giving up the cushion. 

Trail Glove 6 is the ideal shoe for runners who are slowly transitioning to full barefoot running or who need a bit of cushioning to go on extended hikes and trail runs in the backcountry.