Merrell Vapor Glove 5 review
79
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all running shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn moreVerdict from 3 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Natural sensation
- Sock-like fit
- Versatile use
- Lightweight
- Roomy toe box
- Durable
- Easy on and off
Cons
- Not breathable
- Less barefoot than predecessors
Any color
Men
Women
66% say it's true to size.
Amazon
$80$60
Zappos
$80$63
Moosejaw
$80$63
Shoebacca
$90
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Rankings
- Our 1st pick in best minimalist running shoes
- Our 1st pick in best barefoot running shoes
- Top 1% in Merrell Vapor Glove running shoes
- Top 15% most popular running shoes
Comparison to similar running shoes
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Table of contents Best PricesCoreScoreVerdictProsConsComparisonWho should buy the Merrell Vapor Glove 5Who should NOT buy itCan't get more barefoot than thisThe Vapor Glove 5 is THE definition of a solid all-rounderLight and naturalFits like a gloveSturdier than everThe Merrell Vapor Glove 5 falls short on breathabilityVeers away from its minimalist rootsFacts / SpecsPopularityVideo reviews
Overview
Who should buy the Merrell Vapor Glove 5
Definitely get the Vapor Glove 5 if you:
- are a runner with strong feet and ankles
- are a forefoot striker
- want to develop a more natural foot mechanics when walking and running
Best uses:
- short- and mid-distance runs
- roads and moderate, hard-packed trails
- treadmill
- gym
Who should NOT buy it
If you're looking for a dedicated trail shoe, consider Merrell Trail Glove collection. These shoes have more substantial underfoot protection.
Can't get more barefoot than this
Following the barefoot footsteps of the Merrel Vapor Glove series, the Vapor Glove 5 is a minimalist shoe for experiencing the most natural foot movement and connection with the ground.
Only 6.5 mm of rubber and foam keep your foot apart from the surface underfoot. Its zero-drop construction also places your heel and forefoot on the same line, mimicking being barefoot.
The Vapor Glove 5 is THE definition of a solid all-rounder
All reviewers were quick to praise the Vapor Glove 5 for being their daily go-to: be it a run, a dog walk, a gym session, or a hike. Extreme use cases include running marathons and hiking 15 miles.
Light and natural
As long as you are adjusted to minimalist footwear, this pair will help you “foster running naturally” and provide sensitive ground contact.
Fits like a glove
The majority of runners reported that it feels “conformed to the foot” and broken-in from the start. It also has ample space in the forefoot in which toes “never feel jammed.”
Sturdier than ever
Owners of previous versions take note of how much sturdier the fifth iteration is in both the upper and the rubber sole.
The Merrell Vapor Glove 5 falls short on breathability
More than a few wearers wish the shoe was more breathable.
Veers away from its minimalist roots
Several die-hard minimalist shoe fans complained that the Glove 5 got thicker and harder in this version.
Facts / Specs
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Merrell Vapor Glove 5 video reviews
