I'm excited each time I wear these shoes
I bought these to replace an aging pair of another brand that were hot and uncomfortable, and couldn't be happier. The first time I tried these on in the store, I was enthralled by how light they were, it was like wearing nothing at all. And they were super comfortable. I was hooked from the start. I was really happy getting these, because I had spent a lot of time looking for a good comfortable shoe that doesn't look like they belong to your grandpa, and had just come up empty. They fit well, maybe just a tad loose for my foot though. I used to wear sandals a lot for comfort, but now I usually choose these over sandals. These are almost like moccasins, I feel like I could be walking silently thru the forest wearing these. They breath well, I've had no problems with heat.
These shoes look great too, good for casual use or something a little more dressy. They are very low cut, I use no-show socks when I wear these with shorts. The materials all seem good quality. They do take a little time to get used to the barefoot aspect, but after a couple days I was fine. The only strange thing with these is that the sole is very thin and now the back bottom edge of my long pants drag on the ground. I have to roll my pants legs up a little to stop this. I could re-hem my pants, but then they would be too short with other shoes.
jereisluke at
REI on
07/07/2013
Overall, the Merrell Reach Glove is a very good casual shoe that will still outperform most other casual shoes in terms of aesthetics and comfort. The chocolate colorway pairs well with a pair of jeans or khakis, and looks nice without drawing too much attention. This is certainly not the most minimal pair of shoes, though. The forefoot is fairly flexible, but the middle and heel cannot flex very easily (this is less important, anyway). The arch is raised to provide a more snug fit, which is fairly noticeable, but does not really constitute arch "support". I normally wear a EE width in traditional shoes, and these fit snugly, but not overly tight (the laces are a bit short, but this isn't a big issue). There is also a rather significant toe spring, meaning the front of the shoe noticeable curves upwards. This does not greatly affect the shoe's performance, but it may be an issue for some looking for a more minimalist shoe. Other than the price being a bit higher than I'd like, the Reach glove is a great shoe for anyone looking for a nice minimalist shoe that looks good and can fit in with a variety of situations.
Best work shoes I've ever owned
I picked these up to replace my traditional pair of work shoes. I've never really cared for regular shoes (especially dress shoes), but I needed something professional that would also be comfortable for 8-9 hours of being on my feet at work.
These shoes are the perfect combination of comfortable, stylish and professional for someone who loves bare feet. I can wear them all day at work without getting uncomfortable, which is something I can't even say for my best pair of regular shoes. The laces allow for a wide range of fits, from running-shoe-tight to slipper-loose. They also have great support for moderate arches.
A couple of things I noticed, however; first, I had to get these a full size smaller than my normal shoe size. I've found this to be the case with most Merrell barefoot shoes, as my runners are the exact same way. Also, they can get a little sweaty when it's hot outside, but not beyond the level of a regular dress shoe by any means.
Overall, a great product that I would definitely recommend - I don't know what I would wear at work if these ever went away.
hksfx88 at
REI on
03/03/2013
Great looking and extremely comfortable
I've worn these shoes for several weeks and concur with the previous reviews, except that I find Merrells to be the only shoe that I can mail order and expect them to fit consistently and sized accurately. Most importantly, they are wide in the forefoot yet are standard in the heel. I've received unsolicited compliments too, which is nice. As to the Barefoot line of shoes generally, they bring me back to many years ago, before foot control Nikes became dominant and when comfort and lightness was common. I purchased my first pair of Trail Gloves last year, after knee replacement surgery. With "regular" running shoes I couldn't run across the street without great pain. After buying the Trail Gloves, I could run a couple of miles. In part due to a change in stride, but also due to the shoe.
Desert man at
REI on
05/05/2013
Nice while they lasted
I wear these everyday (sitting in front of a computer and programming for 5 days of the week) and have had them about 6 months. Although they are incredibly comfortable and lightweight shoes, they seem to have a 6 month lifespan given my use.
Both shoelaces on are severely frayed at every lace hole in the shoe, only a matter of time before they break. I would just replace the laces, but the soles are also wearing through to the midsole at the ball and heel of my foot.
I'm very tempted to buy another pair, but might opt for the slip-on version due to lace issues.
Firek at
REI on
09/09/2013
Amazing shoe - pure comfort
I love this shoe. I have fallen in love with the barefoot series of Merrell shoes and this one is perfect for a casual environment. Some of the other barefoots are bright and are exclusively used for running but these are really nice looking for casual wear and are ridiculously comfortable. Some people do not like barefoots immediately but I recommend wearing them extensively for a month before changing your mind!
Flag Chris at
REI on
05/05/2013
What I've been looking for
I love these. I've worn them camping, I've worn them to a weekend long Phish festival, I've worn them going out with my wife, and I've worn them to work. They look great with jeans, cords, shorts. They are great for walking and not bad for light running. I've been looking for a shoe with this level of versatility and an awesome style and these seem to nail it.
Keith from California at
REI on
08/08/2013
Excellent compromise between the comfort and feel of a five finger and not looking like a weirdo. I was able to walk around Disneyland for about 11 hours with minimal foot fatigue, carrying my daughters and about 15 pounds of camera equipment and little girls' accessories. The next day, I went for a quick run in them. These are my new go to shoes.
Super comfortable!
These are great shoes- similar to a barefoot sole and just as comfortable. I wear them to work and as casual shoes. Only reason I rated them 4 stars is the one shoelace broke after a month- it must of been defective. Merrell said they'd send me another pair so I expect them shortly.
Tom777 at
REI on
05/05/2013
Great casual shoe
My favorite casual shoes. I have both brown and black and wear them to work almost every day. I use a standing workstation and have no problems with foot fatigue. I normally take a size 10 shoe but I wear these in a 9 1/2.
DBTX at
REI on
05/05/2013