# Sustainable Trail Runner Footwear The Merrell Bare Access XTR Sweeper Has Eco-Friendly Materials By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2019-08-08 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-bare-access-xtr-sweeper References: [hiconsumption](https://hiconsumption.com/merrell-bare-access-xtr-sweeper-trail-running-sneakers/) & [merrell](https://www.merrell.com/US/en/bare-access-xtr-sweeper/40728M.html) The [Merrell](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-mtl-adapt-matryx) Bare Access XTR Sweeper is one of the latest footwear designs from the outdoor gear brand that seeks to offer athletes with a better footwear option when looking to [hit the trails for a run](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/trail-running). The shoe is designed to provide a closer connection with the trail to let runners adjust their performance according to the continuously shifting terrain under their feet. The shoe is also focused on an [eco-friendly build](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/targhee-apex) that is made with uppers that have 40% post-consumer plastic, footbeds with 30% recycled materials and even a BLOOM foam midsole that is crafted with algae. The Merrell Bare Access XTR Sweeper is named after volunteers who help to clean up trails after a race and help to put a focus on sustainability in sport. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.8/10 - Popularity: 3% | Activity: 13% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Eco-friendly Footwear:** Opportunity for developing sustainable footwear options made from recycled materials and innovative production methods. - **Trail Runner Performance:** Opportunity to create footwear that provides a closer connection to the terrain, allowing runners to adjust their performance accordingly. - **Sustainable Sports Gear:** Opportunity for brands to offer environmentally friendly sports gear that emphasizes sustainability in sport. ### Where This Applies - **Athletic Footwear:** Opportunity for athletic footwear brands to incorporate eco-friendly materials and innovative design features. - **Outdoor Gear:** Opportunity for outdoor gear brands to develop trail running footwear that enhances performance and promotes sustainability. - **Sporting Goods:** Opportunity for sporting goods manufacturers to produce sustainable sports gear that aligns with eco-conscious consumer demands. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sustainable Running Shoe Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/supernatural-runner.md) - [Recyclable Material Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/salomon-xt-pure-advanced.md) - [Bio-Circular Trail Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/norda-001a.md) - [Abrasion-Resistant Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/trail-running.md) - [Elite Ultramarathon Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-mtl-adapt-matryx.md) - [Efficient Energy Return Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-speedarc-surge-boa.md) - [Chunky Dynamic Trail Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/speedarc-surge-boa.md) - [Ultra-Training Trail Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snow-peak-x-merrell-mtl-long-sky-2-matryx-sp.md) - [Ultramarathon Trail Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/merrell-agility-peak-6.md)