Still trying to find a replacement for the Merrell Bare Access
4/5
Overall
I love a wide toe box, zero drop, and a decent stack height (like, under 22, but over 8). I am fortunate enough to have a large state forest close by, so I get all my miles in on either trail or fire lane. Once in a while I'll hit the bike path to run something "fast". The bare access was, for me, a perfect shoe. I am not a fan of a super stack height. It's a liability on the trails as well. I also don't like a paper thin sole. Xero, I'm looking at you. 🧐. These altra's come close.
The things I like: Wide toe box, relatively low stack height, good tread, I can get a few road miles in with them.
Things I don't like: the upper. It's like spandex or something. I fear one little tear and the shoe is ruined. I'd prefer a more traditional material for the upper.
Sizing was just about on. Maybe a hair on the small side. I have a big foot and a little foot (I know, I know. 🤦🏻♂️) Usually when I order shoes it's no big deal to size off my *slightly* bigger foot. These shoes are very......snug......on the tips of my toes. Hence my worry about the material of the upper. If I break through them I think it's going to be like putting a tear in a balloon. Something to keep in mind.
I'd recommend them , and if I can't find something closer to the merrell bare access, I would definitely buy these again.
Donald Brown · Jul 29, 2023
45 mpw training for a half marathon came from the Merrell Bare Access XTR
- Comfort
- 4/5
- Cushioning
- 4/5
- Durability
- 4/5
- Appearance
- 4/5
- Value
- 4/5
