Merrell has launched what it calls its 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,” said the company.
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 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 0 mm drop trail runner featuring FLEXConnect dual-directional flex-grooves, a Hyperlock TPU heel counter, and Merrell’s Barefoot 2 construction. MSRP is $110. d6c
