#Japan #Merrell #Shibuya #Trail Glove 8 #Barefoot Shoes

Feel the Ground Beneath You

Stepping into the great outdoors just got a whole lot better with the new Trail Glove 8, a cutting-edge minimalist shoe from renowned American outdoor brand MERRELL. Since 2011, the brand has meticulously developed its Barefoot series, classic shoes that prioritize an authentic barefoot experience while venturing on trails.

Set to launch on February 20, 2026, the Trail Glove 8 is the eighth generation of the Trail Glove collection, embodying a unique philosophy that merges barefoot movement with trail performance. Not merely designed for paved roads, these shoes enable runners to tackle uneven terrains rich with stones, roots, and gravel, ensuring stability and flexibility across diverse landscapes.

Innovative Design Features

One of the outstanding features of the Trail Glove 8 is its Happy Marriage of feeling connected to the ground while benefiting from an efficient FloatPro™ foam midsole. This thoughtful design allows for adequate cushioning without losing the vital sensory feedback from the ground, making it a superior choice for prolonged activities. The zero-drop construction encourages a natural posture and seamless weight transfer, effectively bringing the foot's inherent functionality to the forefront.

Adding an extra layer of ingenuity, the FlexConnect™ technology allows the sole to flexibly adapt to the variations in terrain, following each step with accuracy. The outsole, made from MERRELL’s exclusive Vibram® TC5+, guarantees reliable grip across various surfaces, enhancing safety and performance.

Furthermore, the breathable mesh and TPU upper guarantees ventilation while the burrito tongue design provides a snug fit, stabilizing foot movement during all activities. With a supportive heel sling, it minimizes unnecessary wobbling, allowing enthusiasts to venture confidently into nature.

Product Specifications

Name: Trail Glove 8

• - Sizes & Colors:

- [MEN] 25.0 – 30.0 cm
- Colors: BLACK, RATTAN, OOLONG, COMET
- [WOMEN] 22.5 – 25.5 cm
- Colors: BLACK, WHITE, CASPER

• - Price: ¥17,600 (including tax)
• - Sales Start Date: February 20, 2026
• - Purchase Locations: Available at the MERRELL BRAND CENTER SHIBUYA, other MERRELL flagship stores, the MERRELL official online store, and various retailers specializing in barefoot footwear.

About MERRELL

Founded in 1981 by Randy Merrell, who sought to demonstrate his craftsmanship by creating hiking boots, MERRELL has become a beloved outdoor brand worldwide, available in over 160 countries. The brand is synonymous with innovation, focusing on introducing cutting-edge outdoor footwear ranging from hiking boots and trail runners to sports sandals. Its acclaimed “Moab” series and the popular “Jungle Mock” series, which surpassed 17 million units sold since its launch, are representative of the brand's dedication to quality. As MERRELL celebrates its 40th anniversary, the brand continues to prioritize enjoyment of nature while promoting sustainability, looking toward another 40 years of adventure.

Explore more about MERRELL at their official site here, or check out their history here. Don’t forget to watch their latest updates on the MERRELL YouTube Channel.