Merrell Vapor Glove 5
Verdict from 4 experts and 100+ user reviews
4 reasons to buy
- Versatility: 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.
- Barefoot sensation: As long as you are adjusted to minimalist footwear, this pair will help you “foster running naturally” and provide sensitive ground contact.
- Fit: 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.”
- Durability: Owners of previous versions take note of how much sturdier the 5th iteration is in both the upper and the rubber sole.
2 reasons not to buy
- Lacks ventilation: More than a few wearers wish the shoe was more breathable.
- Less barefoot: Several die-hard minimalist shoe fans complained that the Glove 5 got thicker and harder in this version.
Bottom line
If you like being barefoot but want to stay protected, the Merrell Vapor Glove has become a staple in its kind. It is a barely-there shoe that helps you feel more naturally for a wide variety of activities.
But if you’re not ready to feel every pebble underfoot, consider the Trail Glove series. It offers more protection on rocky trails.
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59% say it's true to size.
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Overview of this review
Merrell Vapor Glove 5: barely-there protection
Following the barefoot footsteps of Merrel Vapor Glove series, it 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.
Who is it for?
- runners with strong feet and ankles
- forefoot strikers
- people who 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
For a more trail-ready option, consider Merrell Trail Glove collection. These shoes have more substantial underfoot protection.
What's to like about Vapor Glove 5
- Sock-like upper: barely noticeable
- Easy to put on/take-off: thanks to the stretchy collar and laces
- Durable Vibram outsole
- Use of recycled materials: in the laces, insole top sheet, mesh lining, outsole rubber - 30%
Popularity
The current trend of Merrell Vapor Glove 5.
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