Merrell goes Barefoot
June 14, 2010
Merrell and Vibram, maker of FiveFingers foot-gloves, today announced a new barefoot shoe line. The Merrell Barefoot collection will be a spread of “minimalist, lightweight, versatile and efficient footwear,” according to a press release.
Not available until February 2011, the line will include shoes like the Trail Glove, a trail-running model; the Tough Glove, a foot-conforming soft leather shoe; and the women’s Pace Glove (low-profile trail runner) and Power Glove (ankle-high design with three Velcro closures).
Like other barefoot-style shoes, this line is touted to help “engage the feet for a more natural stride by moving the wearer off the heel and encouraging forward momentum to a mid-foot landing with lower impact and a more aligned and efficient gait.”
Said Tony Post, President & CEO of Vibram USA, “For feet to be healthy, we believe they need to be stimulated and exercised, which will in turn improve the body’s balance and agility. On that premise, we collaborated with Merrell to develop an exclusive outsole that aids in stride efficiency and adaptability for all outdoor terrain.”
—Stephen Regenold
Have a pair of five fingers I originally bought two years ago, used on flat (concrete, tarmac or grass) fine but went for a walk on a loose sureface with gravel flipping agony, also unless your toes conform to their shape it was a nightmare getting my little toe in, boring to do so threw them in the loft never to be seen again, like the look of the Merrels though.
Found out about the Vibram five fingers just a couple of months ago. Bought the Classic version this past Friday. I’m liking them so far. I use them for walking and working out. Plan to get a pair for the water and an additional pair w/strap just to have a variety. I have a few pair of toe socks purchased years ago, that I plan to use with the Vibrams. (1/31/2011)
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Looking forward to another option other than the “Five Finger” – just could not get over the look of them long enough to try a pair.