TRIED & TESTED: Merrell’s Bare Access

Recently, Healthy Living London joined a HIIT yoga class with Merrell and Our Parks in London’s Hyde Park. (You can read our review here.) Whilst there, we were given a pair of Merrell’s Bare Access shoes! Since then, I have used them at every available opportunity and even taken them with me whilst travelling. These lightweight versatile shoes have quickly become a wardrobe staple.

Merrell’s Bare Access shoes are flexible and comfortable over jagged rocks

Merrell’s Bare Access shoes are comfortale and versatile. I have worn them loads recently, including in the gym, hiking, tavelling, or just popping down to the shops. They are designed to be hybrid shoes; meaning they are for the trail, road or the gym. This all encompassing design has made them my favourite pair to take travelling with me, plus, they are really lightweight.

“Powered by FLEXconnect™ for hybrid performance—experience ultimate versatility, comfort, and ground connection on the trail, road, and beyond.” Merrell

On a recent trip, to a humid country, I wore these shoes as I had rented a moped and wanted my feet to be safe whilst riding the bike and not be wearing feet exposing flip-flops! My Merrell’s Bare Access shoes were breathable in this hot environment and did not bother me. I thought I would get sweaty feet and want to take the shoes off when I got off the moped, but instead, the breathable mesh lining meant my feet were fine, plus the spongy footbed was comfy whilst exploring.

Climbing and hiking along the shore

Whilst hiking and climbing over the rocky beach, I felt perfectly safe. The sole of the shoe has groves and allows for excellent grip on both wet and dry terrains. They are flexible and allowed me to wander freely over the jagged shoreline, without feeling the sharpness of the rocks.

“Hyperlock™ printed TPU heel counter for security during quick descents and sharp turns.” Merrell

The shoes have excellent grip and I felt confident climbing and exploring the rough terrain. Plus, the rubber soles are easy to clean after all the exploring.

I love these shoes and definitely recommend them. One piece of advice for readers is to try the shoes on as they do run a little big. I am a half size smaller in these shoes than my normal size.

HIIT yoga class with Merrell and Our Parks

UPDATE: One Year Later

Well, I still love these shoes and have worn them for hiking, biking, dancing, shopping etc! They are flexible and comfortable and breathable. Love them. However, it must be said that they are not as durable as I believe they should be. Sadly, with wear, it seems they do tear. The seam, where the fabric meets the coated design near the toe, has worn down and a slight hole has appeared. This has happened on both shoes and on both sides, suggesting the fabric rubs against the thicker coating, eventually resulting in the material to be weakened. I still wear these shoes regularly, but I believe Merrell need to adjust their design for more durability.

One year on – wear and tear.

Find Out More:

How Much? Bare Access Flex shoes £80
Where Can I Buy A Pair? cotswoldoutdoor.com

More Info:

Instagram – @merrelluk
Facebook – @merrelluk
Twitter – @merrelluk
Youtube – merrell

Check out our review of Merrell’s Grassbow Mid Sport here.

*Health Advice: It is advisable to consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.

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