This new trail running shoe from Merrell is actual GARBAGE

Limited Edition Merrell Bare Access XTR Sweeper

(Image credit: Merrell)

published 24 August 2019

The premise of the Limited Edition Merrell Bare Access XTR Sweeper trail running shoes is just great. Made out of recycled plastic and algae, this shoe has a small carbon footprint whilst offering a great trail running experience too.

The Sweeper Edition of the Bare Access XTR is a thank you from Merrell to all the hard-working volunteers who help keep trail running routes clean before and after the event, called sweepers. These are the people who remove debris from the path before and pick up all the rubbish after the races, making sure nature is returned its original state.

Algae and plastic living in perfect harmony

Why do we like the Merrell Bare Access XTR Sweeper trail running shoes?

The Merrell Bare Access XTR Sweeper is built on the Bare Access XTR and its main concern is finding the balance between comfort and connection with the ground. Merrell has been manufacturing hiking footwear for over 30 years so knows a thing or two about what makes shoes good for trails.

The FLEXconnect technology supports the natural flexing of a foot
in motion to enhance agility on any terrain. Anatomically-inspired, bidirectional
flex grooves allow the foot to move naturally on uneven ground, providing
improved ground connection and stability.

On top of this, the Sweeper is really a running shoe we can call green. The material breakdown is as follows:

40% recycled mesh lining
100% recycled laces
30% recycled Vibram Ecodura outsole
100% recycled TPU overlays
40% recycled front mesh
10% algae BLOOM foam midsole
100% recycled rear mesh
100% recycled Hyperlock TPU film heel counter

The only plastic you should be proud to wear

Like it wasn't enough that the Sweeper is already using mostly recycled materials for most of its construction, the BLOOM foam midsole is made from 10% algae biomass which cleans and restores the environment when harvested for a more eco-friendly alternative to standard foams.

An extremely direct yet comfortable running shoe for all the eco-friendly trail runners (so basically all them). Priced at a moderate £90, given all the benefits of the Sweeper, it really is a no-brainer to get one.

Matt Kollat is a journalist and content creator who works for T3.com and its magazine counterpart as an Active Editor. His areas of expertise include wearables, drones, fitness equipment, nutrition and outdoor gear. He joined T3 in 2019. His byline appears in several publications, including Techradar and Fit&Well, and more. Matt also collaborated with other content creators (e.g. Garage Gym Reviews) and judged many awards, such as the European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance's ESSNawards. When he isn't working out, running or cycling, you'll find him roaming the countryside and trying out new podcasting and content creation equipment.