Trail Glove 7 Hiking Sneaker

I had tried the first or second Trail Gloves and then they seemed to lose their way and I did not like their successors and went back to traditional shoes from another brand. I decided to give them another try as I've started strength training recently and was asked to find shoes with a flat platform and a wide toe box. Overwhelmed by other choices in the zero drop category I returned to something familiar and after reading reviews decided to give these a try. Very happy to do so! They are a nice in-between choice for barefoot vs. traditional shoes. They cinch up tight through the midsection of the foot so feel secure and "supportive" on my high arches. Yet they feel grounded through the grippy soles and with room for my toes to wiggle. I'm happy with the straight black color option so I can wear them to the gym, to walk on rough roads, and to work. Glad this was a good return to Merrells!