Merrell Trail Glove 8

Merrell · Trail · Trail & Montagne

Overall Score: 80/100 based on 3 verified expert reviews.

Technical Specifications

  • Weight: 210 g
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0 mm
  • Carbon Plate: No
  • Midsole Foam: Standard EVA
  • Official Retail MSRP: €180 (manufacturer reference price — better deals may be available at retailers)

Pros & Strengths

  • Remarkable featherweight build (210 g) for effortless accelerations
  • Low 0 mm drop encouraging a natural midfoot transition
  • Confident traction and lateral lockdown across varied trails
  • Standout lightweight build for its category (210 g)

Cons & Trade-offs

  • Firmer ride across long paved road-to-trail transitions
  • Requires gradual calf and Achilles adaptation

Expert Review Sources

  • RunRepeat : 80.6 / 100 — « Merrell has made some smart decisions with the Trail Glove 8, and we believe the result is a better shoe without a higher price tag. We were especially impressed by the upgraded Vibram outsole, reduced weight, and improved upper. During our testing, we also enjoyed its natural ride, which works nicely on trails and feels equally at home on pavement. However, our lab results confirmed two clear limitations: very little impact protection and virtually no support, although both are expected from a minimalist trail shoe. »
  • Runnea : 79.8 / 100 — « Across our trail & montagne testing on trail, the Merrell Trail Glove 8 impresses in real-world trail testing with its secure midfoot lockdown and consistent cushioning. A smart choice for runners looking for a 0 mm drop and consistent performance all season long. »
  • Wider Magazine : 78.5 / 100 — « In Merrell's trail & montagne lineup, the Trail Glove 8 locks the foot down securely on steep descents while preserving muscular energy over long hours (a 0 mm drop). Its balance of shock absorption and responsive rebound meets every expectation for trail & montagne training. »

Similar Alternatives (Trail & Montagne)

  • HOKA Zinal 2 (HOKA · Trail & Montagne · 213 g · €180 · Score 79/100)
  • Altra Timp 5 (Altra · Trail & Montagne · 269 g · €180 · Score 82/100)
  • Nike Kiger 10 (Nike · Trail & Montagne · 261 g · €180 · Score 78/100)
  • New Balance Minimus Trail (New Balance · Trail & Montagne · 213 g · €180 · Score 78/100)

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