Merrell Wrapt

Detailed Review

The Merrell Wrapt is part of the brand’s barefoot collection of models that are specifically designed to mimic the shape of the human foot. Just like other Merrell barefoot shoes, it keeps the foot in the position it would be when not wearing anything at all. With its sophisticated and modern design, Merrell Wrapt provides a comfortable and secure outdoor experience.

Materials & Durability

The upper is made of pigskin leather which is loose and breathable. This material is commonly used as an inner lining for shoes but, in the Merrell Wrapt, it’s used as the upper material. Pigskin leather holds up well against abrasion although it is slightly thinner than cowhide.  

The sole material is made up of Merrell’s Quantum grip compound with maximum traction in mountain terrain, wet or dry. The Quantum grip sole compound is the perfect balance between soft tacky rubber and super firm durable rubber. 

Design & Usage

On the official Merrell website, the hybrid shoe is only available in one colorway. For men, the color is called granite. It’s mostly a grey color with accents of orange. Meanwhile, on other merchant sites, Lichen is available for women – a colorway with moss green on the upper and an earthy brown rubber outsole.

Also known as Merrell Wrapt Low, the shoe was primarily designed for different outdoor activities. It’s also labeled as a walking shoe. Most users wore their pairs when hiking and biking but some would use the shoes for casual strolls around their city.

Performance

Inside is a breathable mesh lining that allows air to flow through the shoe, preventing hotspots while the user is moving in nature. The upper features a bellows-tongue that prevents debris and liquid from entering the shoe. Despite this, it’s important to take note that the shoe is not fully waterproof.

Fit, Sizing & Comfort Level

The Merrell Wrapt is true to size. However, sizing can be a hit or a miss depending on the shape and size of your foot. Some suggested getting a pair with your usual measurements, but there were a few that mentioned going up a size. 

In terms of comfort, almost all reviews say that there’s no question that the Merrell Wrapt Low is a comfortable shoe with enough room in the toebox. With no restrictions on the ankle, there’s maximum mobility outdoors which plenty of users appreciate.

Footwear from Merrell also has a good reputation for fitting comfortably right from the box. This seems to be supported by reviews that say that the Wrapt did not require to be broken in.

The barefoot design allows your toes to wiggle freely and splay when moving. When walking on an incline, users observed that their toes do not jam into the front even with thick walking socks. 

Grip & Protection

The outsole was made with the mountain-grade Quantum Grip compound which was formed into a circular door-to-trail pattern. This design is focused on lug geometry that’s directional, and it works very well when moving forward and fast-paced. According to users, the outsole has good traction but doesn’t have a good grip when on extra-soft or wet terrain.

Comparison to Newer/ Older Models

Merrell has another shoe in the market which features the same qualities as the Merrell Wrapt but with an added waterproof membrane that seals the shoe. It’s called the Merrell Wrapt Mid. This is suitable for people that prefer mid-high shoes when doing outdoor activities. 

Final Call

Merrell Wrapt is an outdoor companion that can enhance your outdoor experience. Bringing all the benefits of a barefoot shoe, you can enjoy hiking, biking, and walking with comfortable and natural foot placement. 

The design secures the ankles and feet, maintaining the wearer’s balance. Despite this, there were a few reviews that mentioned the shoe not performing well on wet terrain or rock. It’s best to use the Merrell Wrapt for doing common outside activities.

If you prefer a more covering and a waterproof version of the Merrell Wrapt, you can consider the Merrell Wrapt Mid.