Customer Reviews Merrell Bare Access Arc 2

This minimalist running shoe with lightest support has been a lifesaver for me. I'm in later middle age and since hitting fifty, I've been having trouble with lower back and knee pain/stiffness, and calluses on the balls of my feet. Walking was more and more compromised as I kept trying to accommodate and ease my increasing immobility with shoes that were gradually more and more supportive, cushioned, and thicker soled. Then a young runner suggested that such rigid shoes might be actually worsening my muscular-skeletal conditions by forcing me to walk in patterns unnatural to my individual needs. Lo and behold I tried this less structured running shoe and my pain and stiffness has begun to melt away in less than 3 weeks. Just adding this review in case anyone else my age is finding themselves buying more heavy, orthopedic style shoes with no - or worse - results. The minimalist models may be worth a try for you too! I'm back at Zappos to order my 3rd pair of 'Arc 2' (lest Merrell stop making this hybrid model).

I ordered these and the Dash Glove to compare. These have a tad more cushioning and arch support (which I'm actually not a fan of) than the Dash Glove. The winning factor is that while my foot isn't wide, per se, sometimes a regular width can be a bit suffocating for my toes. I found that to be the issue with the Dash Glove; the Access Arc 2 clearly has a wider toe box. These are a very breathable shoe and when we head back to the south I don't anticipate foot heat being an issue! I normally run in Vibram Five Fingers, but it's nice to have an alternate shoe with a bit more cushioning and more between me and the wet cement. This fits the bill. Plus, it cuts down on dirty looks from fellow runners at races. I would also tell Merrell this is probably the best looking sneaker they have. Sometimes their shoes can be a bit...stodgy, but these are "cute" enough for my trendy self.

If you have a wide foot and frequently find that your toes are pinched, this might be a shoe for you. I'm used to having to return shoes because they are too narrow and uncomfortable. This shoe fit perfectly and I wore them all day right out of the box. If you have a narrow foot this is not for you, but for those who value comfort and don't like shoes that pinch, check this one out.

I have a pair of the Barefoot Dash but needed something with a little more support/cushioning. These fit the bill. I am a true 9 1/2. I have been wearing Merrells for years and always a 9 1/2. I wear a 9 1/2 in both the Barefoot Tempo and Barefoot Dash. So I was shocked that the 9 1/2 was too big. I had to go down to a 9.

These are just like their description: a barefoot shoe with a little bit of cushioning. I previously had the Merrill Barefoot Pace glove which I liked , but these are a little roomier in the toebox and the sole is much softer. I really like them!

These are great shoes! They have a wide toe box for those of us with bunions. They are very lightweight but provide good arch support. Highly recommend.

I'm no pro at running but I am vegan and love long distance runs and these shoes got my running lifestyle perfectly! What I love most is how the back part of the shoe is soft unlike most that get "bent or broken in." There's no need to with these. The very first day I got them I did 2.5 miles without one problem. They are super lightweight and slim fitting...excellent for me since I have a very slim foot and high arch. I wear 7 W and they fit true to size. I've done probably close to 30 miles since I got them (a little over a month ago) and you can't even tell. The tread is still in brand new condition. Since they are barefoot, you can and will feel everything you run on. Not a bad thing, just something you have to adjust to. I am 100%+ satisfied with my pair. Would highly recommend.

This is better than barefoot. This is seriously the most comfortable footwear that I have ever worn. It is like nothing, but so much better. I will have to order another pair in case they are ever discontinued. I hope that does not happen. They are not super arch supported which actually makes your feet feel like they have more of a natural grip. Every few wearings, they go right into the washing machine, line dry and perfect!

I have a couple other Merrell barefoots (lithe glove, dash glove) where I had to go up a half size to give myself room in the toebox for running, etc. I tried these on at the mall and was pleased to see I could order my normal 7.5. Ordered from Zappos because they had the color I was lusting after. Slight drop on these shoes so it's sort of a step back from true Merrell barefoots but if I overdo a day of exercise I have a bit of pain in the arch, these work perfectly. I think on Merrell's website they sort of call them out as being for someone easing into the barefoot lifestyle. It almost kept me from getting them. So glad I didn't let that stop me. These guys are light years better than the assortment of Nike's & Under Armour shoes now gathering dust in my closet and still have the barefoot feel I have come to know and love.

I love these shoes! At first I thought they wouldn't be supportive enough. I wanted them for Zumba. The shoes I've all tried were making my toes hurt. These are nice because they have a wide toe box. There isn't enough room for any extra insole, but you don't really need them.

I was trying to decide whether to start this review with "Excellent!" or "Wonderful!" or "Amazing!" and I couldn't pick just one. I bought these shoes after doing quite a bit of research about minimal shoes. I don't do a lot of sports or visit the gym as often as I should; I was looking for a new sneaker because the gym shoe I do have is too bulky for my taste (it's an Asic sneaker, and mine is a size 11 shoe that I don't want to look any bigger than it has to). The Asic was also rather restrictive in terms of movement, and overall not very comfortable. In my research about minimalist/barefoot sneakers, I read that it's important to transition into them and give yourself time to adjust (I'm thinking this applies more so to regular runners). I spoke to a few people at REI and EMS who, between the New Balance Minimus and this shoe, recommended this one as the ideal "transition shoe" for people moving toward minimal from a regular sneaker. (I know that New Balance also runs small, which is annoying.) This shoe is also preferable for "transitioners" over any truly barefoot or glove shoe. As other reviewers have noted, this shoe is extremely comfortable right out of the box. In fact, I haven't taken them off since they arrived in the mail yesterday. I usually wear flat, basic sandals, Chucks, or Saucony Bullets, so in terms of the lack of the typical amount of structure you find in a regular gym sneaker, this one didn't feel shocking to me at all -- if anything, it felt extremely relieving and exciting! (A shoe as comfortable as my regular everyday sneakers, that I can work out in? No way.) I took a walk outside last night in some drizzle, with no socks. My feet were warm and I could feel some cool air coming in through the top of the shoe. Great flexibility. I find that the shoe is more comfortable without socks, and was relieved to read that they're machine washable. The toe box is very roomy so it's easy to stretch out the toes, but it doesn't feel too big. The shoes offer a LITTLE more cushion and support than an actual barefoot shoe, which is great for anyone who desires those qualities, and anyone like me who wants a minimal shoe but not a straight up barefoot shoe. A great buy. I'm SUPER happy. And as always, Zappos service was top notch.

I had been researching these shoes and similar ones for weeks. I always read other reviews to get a feel for the product. First, I am not a runner but was looking for a great looking sneaker to wear for walking in the city. I don't like chunky looking tennis shoes with thick soles so I happened on this Merrell. I was hesitant at first only because of the price. Trust me on this one, don't let that stop you. These sneakers are awesome. Exactly what I was looking for. Very cute. I bought the black and silver ones. Right out of the box comfort! My new favorites! If you require shoes with a lot of support, this may not be the shoe for you. I love it and can see myself ordering another color very soon!

I've been wearing Merrell Pace Gloves for light trails, walking, and jogging for over a year now. I bought the Bare Access shoe, thinking I wanted something with a little more support for rocky stuff. First off, the "green/aqua" is insanely cute. This shoe feels on the narrow side in the arch, but the toe box is nice and roomy. Feels very secure once laced up. The vibram tread seems to be nice and grippy. The arch is nice and firm for flat footed overpronators like myself, but the thing is, now that I've gotten completely used to going full out minimal barefoot, the structure just feels weird to me. This is a very attractive, well made, light, comfortable shoe if you want arch support. I'm glad I gave it a try, because now I know I'm a pace glove girl all the way. If you're looking into Merrells, I'd highly suggest you order this shoe, and the pace glove, and just return the one that doesn't work for you. Spend a little time on a clean treadmill to be sure. (Go up a half size for the pace glove.)

OK, so I hate sneakers - more of a high fashion gal myself. But these shoes are so lightweight and cute! They make my 9.5 size feet look small as well - how can that be. Are they magic?

Love this shoe! I have this shoe and a different Merrell barefoot shoe. This one has slightly more padding, the other pair doesn't have any. Both are by far the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. Toe box is roomy, no rubbing or feeling squished. Heel is comfortable as well, no rubbing there either. I do have a fairly narrow heel and these fit perfectly. I can't say enough good things about the Merrell's barefoot technology.

Perfect. Super comfortable and light. Fit like a glove from the first lace up. Barefoot feel with just enough support and cushion in the arch and heel for folks new to the barefoot-style shoe. Lots of toe room without looking like duck feet, easily made snug around heel and ankle which is great for folks with skinny heels. After 5 minutes, you forget you are wearing shoes. Grey/blue color is the least "obnoxious" but also have the turquoise. Wish there was a black version. Terrific shoe for walking around all day and amazing for Zumba! I hope Merrell continues to produce this shoe as I have tried many others and this fit the bill right out of the box. I am wearing them now.

After having two total knee replacements at a young age, I tried many different shoes with padding, support, etc. and come to find out Barefoot brands of any kind have been perfect. I can hike for hours, walk all afternoon, and no more knee pain. Seems like a miracle, really. I can't say enough.

Feather-light but very nicely designed to support the arch. I usually have lots of problems breaking in new shoes but these I could wear comfortably from day one. Will buy more of this shoe in different colors.

I'm also in my late 40's and I really thought a lighter weight/more arch support was the way to go. I have been wearing mine indoors mainly as I needed more support and comfort on my hardwood floors. Excellent shoe and plan on purchasing another pair for outdoor running/walking.

These shoes are everything that a friend assured me they would be. Comfortable, comfortable, comfortable. Wonderful colors to choose from and great for a full day of wear. I think my feet were glad I purchased them.

The shoes are amazing! They are so comfortable and I have amazing grip when doing aerobics/gym classes. I wear a size 11 and my feet are wide and they even make my feet look smallish! UPS lost my original package and Zappos sent out another pair right away! I love Zappos!

I honestly didn't think I'd like these shoes because they are so thin and light/not much tread. I use them for Zumba. I love them! I am a heavier girl and my feet do not hurt. And I love how the toe box is wider. Toes do not fall asleep.

Light and pretty. I use it for the gym and they work fine. The pink gets dirty easily though.

I am so happy with these shoes! They are light weight and provide great support. I almost thought mine were half a size too small until I realized that they are meant to be worn without socks. Without socks they are so comfortable and fit great!

These are very comfortable. The heels and sides (below ankle bone) are very shallow even for my bony feet, no chance of scrapping at all! Nonetheless, these are also the reasons for my return - heels not grabbing at all. It just feel weird for a running shoe.