Merrell Barefoot Collection: Your Questions Answered – Part 2

A Merrell expert answers questions about Merrell Barefoot  ( You can read Part 1 here )

Can a man wear the women’s sizes and vice versa?

• Yes, the men’s last is a little wider than the women’s but it’s definitely the same design across gender.

Why partner with Vibram?

• Vibram believes we can service a broader range minimalist consumer to ultimately foster the movement forward.

Why run in Merrell Barefoot compared to Vibram FiveFingers?

• Same last, new outsole and eliminating the toes made it easy to wear for a broader range of consumers. It is easier to put on the foot and has more casual “wearability”.

How are Merrell Barefoot shoes different from Vibram FiveFingers?

• Eliminating the toes has made it possible for a broader range of consumers to wear and is easier to put on the foot.

Why would Vibram want Merrell to make “Barefoot” shoes when they currently own the market?

• The category itself is beginning to grow so providing outsoles gives Vibram greater reach in the category and they know the great quality product that Merrell produces.

What if someone already owns Vibram FiveFingers? Why would they want to buy Merrell Barefoot?

• They might want the feel of going barefoot and take it casually in a full shoe form. Not to mention, people buy shoes for looks. Not everyone loves the FiveFinger silhouette.

Is the MBF product safe in water or can it be used as a water shoe?

• Yes, MBF can be used in and around water. They are designed as a minimalist approach to outdoor multisport including water.

These look like climbing shoes? What is a Barefoot shoe?

• These shoes can be used for multiple sports and activities, but they not made specifically for climbing I.E. different last (Climbing shoes aren’t as flexible, and no tread.)

How do we address walking in these?

• The same as running and any activity that causes you to use muscles and tendons that may not be strong yet. Start slowly.

Can they be used in the rain?

• Yes, running in the rain is completely fine. The Vibram Trail Sole is designed for both wet and dry surfaces.

Can they be used in snow?

• Yes, running in the snow is fine and I found that the toe lugs are great for snowy trails and compact snow.

Can I only run/ train with these shoes or can I just walk?

• You can walk, hike, run, wear them casually or wear them for water sports. It’s about making a new connection to the outdoors!

Where should people NOT wear them?

• Merrell Barefoot can be worn anywhere your feet take you…the key is to listen to your body and slowly progress into full-time use.

Why not go just barefoot and totally not wear any shoes?

• Many people do…Merrell Barefoot is just a way to provide that same feeling with a little added protection.

Will I be sore if I wear these all day?

• At first yes, you must allow your feet and legs to get stronger and adjust to being active in Barefoot. Again, it’s important to start slow.

How many miles should someone expect to get out of one pair?

• It depends on the end user but they’ll wear like a typical running shoe and, with the use of a Vibram outsole, the durability isn’t and issue.

Are there certain techniques to running Barefoot?

• Techniques include: midfoot/forefoot strike, realigning your center of gravity, increased cadence and short efficient strides.

What are the advantages of running Barefoot?

• Merrell’s claims, i.e. strengthens, realigns, stimulates.

How does Merrell address over-pronation? Under-pronation?

• Because the foot sits closer to the ground, stability is increased and over-pronation is minimized. Plus starting a slow Barefoot progression will increase strength and overall flexibility related to foot function.

How much lighter is the Barefoot models vs. traditional in running shoes?

• Merrell Barefoot: The men’s Trail Glove weighs 6.2 ounces for one size 9. The women’s Pace Glove is 4.7 ounces for one size 7.

If someone is feeling pain should they discontinue use?

• Yes, running though pain is never good especially running Barefoot…start slow and progress from there.

What is the difference between the heel striking and midfoot/ forefoot running?

• Heel landing causes breaking and increased force at impact. Forefoot running distributes force throughout the ankle, hip, knee, etc.

What about kids?

• These shoes provide a great opportunity to allow a child to continue to build/strengthen and you could say that it makes more sense for kids to wear them, because they will be able to properly develop the muscles in their feet and lower legs.

Isn’t the current cushioning in running shoes designed to minimize impact and reduce injury?

• Every shoe is different, but we are simply providing another choice for consumers looking to stimulate their training routines.

Why all the warnings?

• To insure that a proper progression is taken, to achieve maximum benefits without risk.

How and who has tested these products?

• Staff, retailers, media and members of the Barefoot Society have tested these shoes extensively.

Why do I need special shoes to use “barefoot like” running technique?

• Shoes that lift the heel are promoting a forward heel strike instead of the natural midfoot strike of a 0mm drop shoe.

Is it a negative heel similar to Kalso-Earth shoes, etc.?

• No it’s not a negative heel but a 0mm drop shoe means from heel to toe the amount of midsole/ outsole is the same, just like being barefoot!

Is this a vegan shoe?

• Yes, the men’s Trail and True Glove as well as the women’s Pace and Pure Glove are made of fully synthetic materials and glues.

Is there a DWR finish on the shoes?

• Not on Barefoot.