ROCKFORD, Mich. (July 23, 2019) – Merrell, the brand that exists to give you all you really need to discover the simple yet profound power of the trail, has launched their most sustainable trail runner to date: The Bare Access XTR Sweeper. The Sweeper features recycled materials wherever possible and celebrates an under-the-radar community that’s helping to keep our wild lands wild.

Along with recycled laces, linings and footbeds, the trail runners utilize a BLOOM® performance midsole foam made of 10% recycled algae that transforms green water into clean water in the process. Additionally, the outsole is made from Vibram® EcoDura, derived from 30% recycled, post-manufacturing scraps.

The name of the shoe is derived from the community of “Sweepers” that attend trail runs, such as Ragnar Trail Series, and pick up stray flags and random items inadvertently left on the trail, returning the course to its pristine, pre-race state. To showcase their important efforts, Merrell launched a short film highlighting the group.

“The volunteers who sweep race courses after a trail race are essential to making sure people can enjoy the trails for years to come,” says Erika Derylo, Brand Manager for Trail Run at Merrell. “They often fly under the radar, and so this shoe was really meant to be a way to shine a light on all that they do and thank them for giving up their time to give back to the outdoor community.”

An evolution of the Bare Access collection, the Bare Access XTR Sweeper is a 0mm drop trail runner featuring FLEXConnect™ dual-directional flex-grooves, a Hyperlock™ TPU heel counter, and Merrell’s Barefoot 2 construction.

The Bare Access XTR Sweeper is available now on Merrell.com and select retail in men’s and women’s, with an MSRP of $110.

Watch the film featuring the Bare Access XTR Sweeper on our YouTube channel.