Merrell - Trail Glove 5 3D

I actually found them less breathable than my trail glove 5. The upper is pretty thick and padded for some reason. In addition to making it not as breathable as it could be, it retains water and doesn't dry as fast. I wanted to love them, but not a fan of the thick upper material.

I have two pairs I switch between, both trail sneakers, depending on whether or not I have my car or the wifes. Saucony Peregrine and the Merrell trail glove. Both excellent, and you can get an older model a year or two out for a steal if you're not too picky about colors. I'll change up the laces for a color pop if they're bland. The Peregrine is more of a traditional style with deeper lugs I'll try to wear if it is a bit muddy, and the Trail Gloves are low profile snug fitting, more like barefoot style.

Consider a minimalist shoe like the Trail Glove. Sounds like it checks all the boxes: grippy, close to the ground for lots of sensory feedback, lightweight, hugs your foot.

Modern Trail Gloves suck. Vapor Gloves are still great. The Trail Gloves have a very agressive arch support. Their sole is a little bit ticker as well, but that may actually be more in line with what OP is looking for (more similar to what he has now).

Love the TrailGlove's! For shorter runs I love them, I fell it connect's me with the path, the earth, roots and rocks. However when it comes to longer runs (more than 10-14 km) I use Hoka's

Merril trail runners, i love them

I rotate through 2 pairs and run trails but also roads to get to trails. I love Merrell minimalist trail shoes. Super flexible, allow my feet to move easily, allow my feet to be strong (I feel too much cushion in shoes takes away from your awareness of your stride and doesn’t allow your feet to move naturally). You want to be sure to get a pair with a rock plate if you’re running trails.

Over the years I’ve worn trail runners from Merrill and Salomon, or standard running shoes from Nike and NB. A comfortable fit was the main criteria. Even on wet ground I’d rather have fast drying sneakers than boots.

I actually have those Merrels in blue. I love them.

I wouldn't know haha. I have some wide feet and have no problems. About 100 miles of trails and they look like they are brand new besides mud stains.

I’ve got two pairs of trail runners 1 merrell and 1 Nike Pegasus gtx. Both 9.5ik size. The merrell are roomier but have a slightly harder sole. The Nike have a softer sole but are tight across the width of the foot. So as others have said try and get to a running shop and try them on with different types of socks.