Men's Bare Access Flex

Added this shoe to my Merrell line up for mixed runs on limestone trail, asphalt and single track technical. In the same run, handles all these surfaces beautifully. Also rotate it into runs on asphalt/concrete. Trail or road, it is adaptive! Others in lineup are original Bare Access, original Road Glove, Trail Glove II, and 3 others of a different brand. Merrell is my go-to, and all are durable. Finally had to retire a pair of original Bare Access after 6 years and over 2k miles! So this park replaced the retired pair in lineup. Bare Access Flex perfect for travels - one shoe in suitcase that can go from road to trail! Only complaint is it is a little snug in ties compared to first generation, and footbed not as flexible. After 100 miles, both concerns are not noticed. Retired 2k warrior picture is attached. :)

I have been running for 25 years and accustomed to barefoot running. I have used various Merrell's over the years and have found all of them to be exceptional. Recently bought a S*****n pair which did not work well after 40 miles of running and switched to the Bare Access. First run, no problems but a slight blister. When compared to chronic blisters and "feeling the shoe" construction with the S*****n's. Bare Access are nice and light weight. Overall good feel for my feet and running style.

I bought three pairs of this shoe, at the shop, since I was so happy with Merrell Bare Access 3 & 4 previously. This shoe also fits very nice with lots of room for the toes etc. However, after a couple of runs the shoe starts making a squeaking noise when hitting the ground. It sounds like a rubber duck being squeezed repeatedly. I tried my second pair and the same thing happened with them too. The most anoying squeaking occurs and I can no longer enjoy a peaceful run. Not happy at all.

I enjoy running in these shoes, love the zero-drop platform with some cushioning. I tried running in minimalist shoes (Merrell's Trail Glove) and have found these to be a great alternative to promote mid-foot striking but with enough cushioning to prevent injury if/when my form breaks down on longer runs, descents etc.. I'm considering a third pair after wearing the sole off the mid-foot and busting through the upper near the ball of my foot on both pairs after ~600 miles. Wish I could get some more mileage out of them.

These shoes look good and are comfortable, but the fabric of the uppers wore out and separated from the reinforced areas in no time.