Merrell Makes a 'Super Comfortable' $54 Barefoot Sneaker That Feels Like 'Walking on Air'

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In This Story

Why We Love This Deal

It’s the month of Merrell: The shoe brand’s Summer Sale continues through July 21, and right now, you can shop standout bargains on hiking shoes, hiking boots, and more for up to 60% off. That’s typical Merrell fare, but you can also find some awesome deep cuts from the brand’s catalog on sale, including this unique barefoot sneaker. 

The Merrell Wrapt is on sale for $54, a 55% discount from its normal price of $120. To access the full discount, use promo code EXTRA40 at checkout. It’s available across four colorways at that price, and there are plenty of sizes in stock. You can tell right off the bat there’s something different about this shoe; it looks nothing like Merrell’s other hiking shoes. That’s because it’s part of the brand’s barefoot collection, a line of shoes designed to promote your natural stride. 

Although it might seem like a niche option, the Wrapt is very popular and has over 800 reviews on the Merrell website, on par with more well-known picks like the Moab Speed 2 Gore-Tex. 

Merrell Wrapt Barefoot Sneaker, $54 (was $120) at Merrell

What Shoppers Should Know

• Upper: Pig suede leather, synthetic mesh
• Outsole: Quantum Grip rubber
• Weight: 10.58 ounces
• Drop: 0mm

The barefoot shoe trend took hold among runners around the early 2000s—do you remember the Vibram 5 Finger shoes?—and although the craze has since dissipated, many people still say they feel most comfortable in barefoot-style shoes. 

The Wrapt is a great example of this category: Whereas other hiking shoes have thick, well-padded midsoles with lots of cushioning and support features, the Wrapt barely even has a midsole at all. Instead, there’s a thin EVA footbed that creates minimalist cushioning and gives your feet a direct feel for the ground. The sole shape closely matches the natural shape of your foot, and the wide toe box gives your toes room to splay out with each step. In essence, it’s a shoe that protects your feet and boosts your grip (thanks to the lugged full-contact rubber outsole) without interfering with your stride. 

Thanks to its anatomical design, it allows you to walk around as if you were barefoot without exposing your feet to the elements. Although you won’t get much cushioning, many people love the direct connection to the ground and natural stability that comes from this kind of shoe. Of course, they’re not for everybody—a 2025 article written for Ohio State Health & Discovery states that you should avoid these shoes if you have high arches, flat feet, or foot issues like plantar fasciitis.

Related: Merrell’s Trail-Crushing Breathable Hiking Shoes Are 55% Off Right Now

What Shoppers Are Saying

If you’re not familiar with barefoot shoes, you might be surprised to see shoppers describe the Wrapt as “super comfortable” and like “walking on air,” but that’s what they’re saying. A well-made barefoot shoe should feel wear-all-day comfortable, and that’s exactly what you get with the Wrapt. Shoppers loved its excellent traction and “nice natural feel.” One shopper said, “It really feels like walking barefoot.”

Merrell deals are selling fast during the Summer Sale, and at over half off, this is likely your best opportunity of the year to bring home the Wrapt sneaker. Score your pair ASAP while there are still plenty of sizes and colorways to choose from. 

Shop More Deals

• Merrell Maipo Explorer Aerosport, $58 (was $130) at Merrell
• Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid Tactical Waterproof, $63 (was $150) at Merrell
• Merrell ProMorph, $72 (was $160) at Merrell