It is not very clear which way the Merrell Bare Access XTR goes because on the one hand it recovers the aesthetics of the much appreciated (and now missed) Bare Access 4, but on the other hand it is practically a third heavier (240 by 184 grams are the official figures) than the old model. Anyway what is certain is the commitment to the use not only of elements that do not come from animals but the recycling of disposable materials in the models of the edition "Sweepers" in honor of the volunteers who clean of waste natural environments with the aim of minimizing the environmental footprint.
There are plenty of changes from the supposed predecessor Bare Access Flex 2, and the upper was not going to be far behind. It recovers the pre-flex style with an open and very breathable mesh with TPU thermosealed reinforcements that form the structure on which the shoe sits allowing the necessary flexibility to adapt to the foot and its movements. The traditional flat laces and M-Select Fresh™ antibacterial treatment are maintained so that wearing them without socks is not a problem.
The midsole of the Bare Acces XTR maintains the zero drop concept (no height difference between heel and toe) while growing 2 mm to 10 mm and incorporating FLEXconnect™ technology whose maximum exponent are the forceful grooves in the forefoot that allow better adaptation to the irregularities of the terrain, inviting runners to leave the asphalt and facilitating a smooth transition. The outsole with 3 mm deep lugs recovers the collaboration with the prestigious house Vibram® using TC5+ rubber which is a guarantee of grip and durability.
