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Sonshein
December 08, 2025
Excellent Barefoot-type Shoe - not enough arch support (if you need that)
I love these shoes! I bought them because they were recommended as a transition shoe from orthopedic shoes to a more barefoot type shoe. They are very close to a barefoot shoe. Zero drop, wide toe box, flexible fabric. The sole has a little more support to it than a true barefoot shoe. They have a good sturdy, but not stiff, sole, so I don't feel like I'm walking on the bare ground. But, they are very flexible with a wide toe box like a barefoot shoe.I am recovering from plantar fasciitis. I cannot wear them all day because it's not enough arch support for me. And, that makes me sad because they are very cute, and I love the way they feel. But, my foot will not tolerate the lack of arch support for the whole day. I wear them for a half day or 2-4 hours, and I love it when I have them on. They are very comfortable (except for the no arch support), and I wish my foot would cooperate, but someday my foot will be all better & I'll be able to wear them all day. They are so cute and very comfortable. If you don't have PF, I would highly recommend them. Or even if you do have PF, and you want your foot to slowly get used to non-orthopedic shoes - these are the ones! Very cute and comfortable.
✔ Verified Purchase
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
I've been barefoot walking/hiking/5k'ing for over ten years now but I am not an athlete or expert even in the slightest. I made the switch because, at the time, I was a full-time working daily high heel wearer and lunch time walker, as well as one who participated in 5k races year round, but suffered with chronic hip pain. My feet are in-between medium and wide widths though I prefer wides if and when available (which is pretty rare for 7.5). I typically wear New Balances when walking or jogging, but I've since moved out of the city and into the mountains where I now hike and run on trails. And though I have Columbia hiking boots, they're cold weather boots that are just too dang clunky. I did a lot of research on different brands and styles of both hiking and running shoes before I decided to try Merrell. I went with them because they've been synonymous with running for a long time and I knew I wanted more of a running shoe than a hiking one. I wasn't sure what to expect with so many varied opinions but I took a chance anyway. I wore them for the first time for about four hours indoors and then an hour or two outdoors in a rural setting. It took maybe two hours to break in before they felt like gloves on my feet. Though the sole seems a bit stiff at first, I think it's the perfect amount of protection for practically any situation you could be in without adding any bulk whatsoever and are quite lightweight. I love that the big toes are protected because I'm clumsy af and always seem to be tripping over them in particular. 😅 The toe box isn't so wide that my toes are swimming but still wide enough to allow them to spread out naturally. I was surprised that the upper was a bit narrow/snug compared to most wide shoes, though they fit me perfectly and weren't bothersome. Super comfortable to wear all day and great for all types of terrain. Thankfully these turned out to be exactly what I was looking for and I just hope that these last longer than some others have mentioned in their reviews because these are my new go-to's. Pricey at around $100 but a great buy overall.
✔ Verified Purchase
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Nancy B.
December 13, 2025
Comfortable and stylish
So comfortable, great traction. Took them on my travels, easy to pack doesn’t take up to much room like bulky hiking shoes looked great with everyday casual clothing.
✔ Verified Purchase
C
C. Bennett
September 12, 2025
Great shoes
I absolutely love these shoes! They are incredibly lightweight and comfortable, making them perfect for all-day wear. However, it's worth noting that they don't provide much arch support, which might be a consideration for those who need extra cushioning or stability.One of the standout features is the sole; it has a fantastic grip, and I’ve noticed that they perform really well on wet surfaces without slipping, which gives me confidence while walking in varied conditions.In terms of durability, the shoes are made from high-quality materials, and so far, I haven’t noticed any signs of wear or tear, even after multiple outings. Overall, they blend practicality and comfort beautifully, and I would definitely recommend them!
✔ Verified Purchase
Satisfied
Great fit. Comfy with wide toe box. Laces become untied on running if not tied tightly.
✔ Verified Purchase
A
AKnaturelvr
December 17, 2025
Merrill quality all the way
Comfortable nice looking and Merrill quality. What more can I say? Love them.
✔ Verified Purchase
Garbage Tread
I love Merrell shoes and I have worn my Barefoot shoes from them for years and years. I was excited to see this years line and decided now was a good time to upgrade my Barefoot shoes. The fit is great and I was very excited, until I was just wearing them around to try them out and the tread started popping off. I was on carpet, there is no way these would hold up outside! I ran my finger over the tread and one shoe was fine and the other shoe, tread would break and pop off. I am not paying that much for shoes that immediately fall apart, without ever going outside.
✔ Verified Purchase
