Merrell Wrapt Review
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If you’re in the market for a versatile, minimalist shoe that can handle a variety of terrains and activities, the Merrell Wrapt might just be the footwear you’ve been searching for. As a proponent and a fan of foot shaped and minimalist footwear, I was excited to put this shoe to the test. In this review, I’ll be sharing my experience with the Merrell Wrapt, highlighting its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.
Getting Acquainted with Merrell Wrapt
Upon first glance, the Merrell Wrapt boasts a sleek and modern design. It’s suitable for both outdoor adventures and casual everyday wear. It’s part of Merrell’s renowned barefoot collection, which aims to mimic the natural shape and movement of the human foot.
Design and Materials
The Merrell Wrapt features a pigskin leather upper, which is not only durable but also breathable. Manufacturers typically use this material for the inner lining of shoes. However, in the Wrapt, they utilize it as the upper material, providing both comfort and resistance to abrasion. The shoe also features a bellows tongue to keep out debris and a breathable mesh lining for added ventilation. While the sole of the Wrapt is composed of Merrell’s Quantum Grip compound. Which is designed to provide maximum traction on rugged terrain, whether it’s wet or dry.
The Initial Fit and Comfort Level
From the moment I slipped my feet into the Merrell Wrapt, I could feel the barefoot comfort. The shoe is true to size, offering a nice fit. The toe box is roomy, which allowed my toes to move and splay naturally. This is a critical feature in barefoot shoes as it allows for better balance and stability. The shoe is lightweight, making it suitable for long walks, hiking and adventuring. It’s also worth noting that the Wrapt didn’t require a break-in period, which is a big plus for those who want to hit the trails immediately.
Performance and Durability
Merrell designs the Wrapt as an all-terrain shoe. It integrates an aggressive rubber outsole, manufactured from Merrell’s Quantum Grip compound, to ensure maximum traction on both dry and wet surfaces.
The Wrapt performs exceptionally well in various outdoor activities. Its breathable mesh lining helps prevent hot spots, making it comfortable for long hikes or walks. The aggressive rubber sole provides confidence on varying terrains, while the barefoot design ensured natural foot placement for a comfortable stride. In terms of durability, the pigskin leather upper and the Quantum Grip outsole has held up well withstanding frequent use and harsh conditions.
Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes
If you’re new to barefoot shoes, there might be a slight adjustment period as you transition from traditional footwear. The Merrell Wrapt, like all barefoot shoes, is designed to let your foot move naturally, which can feel a bit unusual at first. However, with regular use, most users find that they quickly adjust to the barefoot feel and even prefer it over traditional shoes.
A Note on Arch Support
One aspect of the Merrell Wrapt that might be a slight drawback for pure barefoot shoe enthusiasts is the firmness of the arch support. In a true barefoot shoe, there is no arch support, allowing the foot to move entirely naturally. While the arch support in the Merrell Wrapt is somewhat minimal and does still offer pronation, it’s something to consider if you’re looking for an entirely barefoot experience.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Merrell Wrapt is a versatile, high-quality shoe that delivers on its promise of providing a close-to-nature, barefoot feel. It’s comfortable, durable, and suitable for a variety of activities. While the somewhat firm arch support might not be ideal for pure barefoot enthusiasts, it’s a minor detail in an otherwise excellent shoe. So, if you’re looking for a minimalist shoe that allows for natural foot movement and can withstand various outdoor activities, the Merrell Wrapt is a great choice. For more info on the Wrapt or other Merrell products, visit www.merrell.com.
