Merrell Rubato

Detailed Review

Merrell Rubato shoes are suitable for new minimalist long-distance runners or those who need extra cushioning on the road or trails. The company brought the shoes’ stack height up and provided a more cushioned feel with its generously padded lining. One can see that the main focus of the shoes is cushioning, compared to other minimalist running shoes with less stack height and a plush feel. 

Materials

These shoes are made with Jacquard mesh and TPU uppers. The Jacquard material helps in the Rubato’s lightweight breathability and foot protection when on rocky trails. Its uppers are also made with closely woven fabrics, rubberized overlays, and a gusset tongue. This helps lessen friction as you run, along with enhancing foot protection and overall durability. 

The Merrell Rubatos are also built with Vibram MegaGrip outsoles, adding to their durability and traction. These outsoles improve the grip on slippery surfaces, such as wet soil, rocks, or mud.

Zero-Drop

These are zero-drop shoes with a 31.5mm stack height. While the stack height adds to the shoe’s cushioning, it becomes an issue when running on technical terrain because of its lack of stability. Users may be intimidated by the height, maybe even disregarding Merrel Rubatos as a minimalist shoe because of it. That said, the stack height does assist in protecting the feet from small and sharp objects.

The cushioning is very responsive with a slight bounce, which runners may enjoy when on country paths and less technical terrains, no matter the distance. Reviewers mentioned that when they slip on the Merrel Rubatos, there is a bouncy feeling from the shoe’s lightweight midsole made of Merrel’s FloatPro foam.

However, the Merrell Rubato also features FLEXconnect dual-directional flex grooves in the midsole, which improves ground feel and flexibility. 

Design and Style

The Merrell Rubato may appear chunky, but the shoes are lighter than they look. Reviewers left positive comments on the athletic look of the shoes, which come in different colors, such as black and orange, blue, and gray. The shoe’s design is versatile, and you can use it for running or when out running errands. 

Fit and Sizing

The Merrell Rubato is true to size and has a wide toe box, suitable for those with wide feet. However, some Rubato reviews have mentioned that the shoes feel a bit loose, especially if you have narrow feet. The paddings might not enclose the feet well, which may result in heel slippage. However, after the shoe’s break-in period, the paddings will start to fit snugly around your feet, which can then prevent heel slippage.

Comfort Level

Reviews mentioned that the shoes’ uppers would wrap their feet smoothly and that the underfoot is soft as they walk or run. 

Because the Merrell Rubato offers a lot of cushioning, they will feel very comfortable. But its cushioning also means that you have less feel of the ground underneath. Rubato users were happier with the soft feel, though there were fewer comments on its minimalist features.

Performance

Merrell Rubato reviews mention the impressive traction the shoes have against wet, rocky, or muddy areas. The cushioning offers versatility in runs, whether you’re aiming to go for high speed or long distance. 

The responsive foam will also provide a springy feeling and energy return, though the stack height becomes an issue on technical terrain. Reviews mentioned that the stack height lacked stability and wasn’t very supportive on technical terrain. 

Final Call: Is This a Good Minimalist Running Shoe?

Merrell Rubatos are lightweight and give off a soft and bouncy feel when running on the roads and tracks. The shoe’s thick stack height poses a bit of a stability problem on trails, though it still offers adequate traction on various surfaces. 

Even with the FlexCONNECT enhancing the ground connection, the Merrell Rubato isn’t the most minimalist shoe out there. It is suitable if you’re beginning your barefoot running journey and still need more cushioning and protection.