originally posted on merrell.com
A second pair of Vapor Glove 5 shoes I purchased today, because I find it to be an excellent barefoot shoe. A larger second pair is needed because my feet increase in size when daily mileage and intensity increase.Having worn Vapor Glove and Trail Glove shoes since their introduction, I appreciate how the designs have evolved and improved. The design, fit, and materials are excellent.The Vapor Gloves I use for all forms of exercise because they allow me to correct old injuries and improve my feet and ankles.Some mobility exercises roll the foot over onto the upper, and the main upper material is holding up very well, while allowing great ventilation for the feet. Those mobility exercises are beginning to pull off the upper edge of the TPU protecting the little ... MoreA second pair of Vapor Glove 5 shoes I purchased today, because I find it to be an excellent barefoot shoe. A larger second pair is needed because my feet increase in size when daily mileage and intensity increase.Having worn Vapor Glove and Trail Glove shoes since their introduction, I appreciate how the designs have evolved and improved. The design, fit, and materials are excellent.The Vapor Gloves I use for all forms of exercise because they allow me to correct old injuries and improve my feet and ankles.Some mobility exercises roll the foot over onto the upper, and the main upper material is holding up very well, while allowing great ventilation for the feet. Those mobility exercises are beginning to pull off the upper edge of the TPU protecting the little toe area. This is a small matter which I believe I can readily fix.Because of the shape of my feet, sometimes the top edge of a shoe's tongue slides down a smidge as the shoes are being put on. A gentle tug quickly corrects.Wear on the trailing edge of the left heel where two internal seams meet has been encouraged by an old injury of that foot causing too much heel contact or scuffing. The barefoot design is helping me to correct this old injury.These are excellent barefoot shoes
originally posted on merrell.com
I was intrigued by the look and concept of the trail glove and decided to give them a try and ordered a pair. When I opened the box and picked one up, I was surprised at how light they were. When I put them on, they fit very well, and almost seemed like another layer of tough, yet pliable skin on my feet. I first tried a short walk around the block, and found the shoes did not give my 240 pounds the cushion I had hoped for. I then went to a nearby trail and was happy to see how well they performed on a dirt trail in the forest. Almost like walking barefoot, but with support and protection. In addition to looking good, their understated profile made my size 13 feet look less massive. They do provide a snug fit, so next pair I'll buy a half size bigger. Very satisfied ... MoreI was intrigued by the look and concept of the trail glove and decided to give them a try and ordered a pair. When I opened the box and picked one up, I was surprised at how light they were. When I put them on, they fit very well, and almost seemed like another layer of tough, yet pliable skin on my feet. I first tried a short walk around the block, and found the shoes did not give my 240 pounds the cushion I had hoped for. I then went to a nearby trail and was happy to see how well they performed on a dirt trail in the forest. Almost like walking barefoot, but with support and protection. In addition to looking good, their understated profile made my size 13 feet look less massive. They do provide a snug fit, so next pair I'll buy a half size bigger. Very satisfied with this purchase. Once again, Merrell did not disappoint.
originally posted on merrell.com
They are great shoes although definitely not for beginners if you are just starting out using barefoot style shoes. I went all in and used them right from the start with no transition exercises or anything and I had a slight bit of foot pain mainly in the heels but after a few weeks it was fine. They are too thin in the toe area if you want to wear these with toe spacers on. You can try it but your pinky and big toe would probably be really snug up to the sides of the toe area. The material used for the shoe is pretty stretchy so it would be tolerable I assume. These are definitely not for cold weather use. The material is really thin almost paper thin. Even with thick hiker socks from the Darn Tough brand on, my feet were still cold during these Fall season months ... MoreThey are great shoes although definitely not for beginners if you are just starting out using barefoot style shoes. I went all in and used them right from the start with no transition exercises or anything and I had a slight bit of foot pain mainly in the heels but after a few weeks it was fine. They are too thin in the toe area if you want to wear these with toe spacers on. You can try it but your pinky and big toe would probably be really snug up to the sides of the toe area. The material used for the shoe is pretty stretchy so it would be tolerable I assume. These are definitely not for cold weather use. The material is really thin almost paper thin. Even with thick hiker socks from the Darn Tough brand on, my feet were still cold during these Fall season months with temps being around 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit. Come Winter I probably wouldn't use these at all. The sole is pretty grippy so slipping, in my opinion, will not be an issue. Main reason I wont give it full stars is because of how thin the material is and if used as a daily I think the durability will not hold up especially if you want to use them to run in.
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash |
| Sole Material | Rubber |
| Outer Material | Leather |
| Closure Type | Lace-Up |
A second pair of Vapor Glove 5 shoes I purchased today, because I find it to be an excellent barefoot shoe. A larger second pair is needed because my feet increase in size when daily mileage and intensity increase.Having worn Vapor Glove and Trail Glove shoes since their introduction, I appreciate how the designs have evolved and improved. The design, fit, and materials are excellent.The Vapor Gloves I use for all forms of exercise because they allow me to correct old injuries and improve my feet and ankles.Some mobility exercises roll the foot over onto the upper, and the main upper material is holding up very well, while allowing great ventilation for the feet. Those mobility exercises are beginning to pull off the upper edge of the TPU protecting the little ... MoreA second pair of Vapor Glove 5 shoes I purchased today, because I find it to be an excellent barefoot shoe. A larger second pair is needed because my feet increase in size when daily mileage and intensity increase.Having worn Vapor Glove and Trail Glove shoes since their introduction, I appreciate how the designs have evolved and improved. The design, fit, and materials are excellent.The Vapor Gloves I use for all forms of exercise because they allow me to correct old injuries and improve my feet and ankles.Some mobility exercises roll the foot over onto the upper, and the main upper material is holding up very well, while allowing great ventilation for the feet. Those mobility exercises are beginning to pull off the upper edge of the TPU protecting the little toe area. This is a small matter which I believe I can readily fix.Because of the shape of my feet, sometimes the top edge of a shoe's tongue slides down a smidge as the shoes are being put on. A gentle tug quickly corrects.Wear on the trailing edge of the left heel where two internal seams meet has been encouraged by an old injury of that foot causing too much heel contact or scuffing. The barefoot design is helping me to correct this old injury.These are excellent barefoot shoes
I was intrigued by the look and concept of the trail glove and decided to give them a try and ordered a pair. When I opened the box and picked one up, I was surprised at how light they were. When I put them on, they fit very well, and almost seemed like another layer of tough, yet pliable skin on my feet. I first tried a short walk around the block, and found the shoes did not give my 240 pounds the cushion I had hoped for. I then went to a nearby trail and was happy to see how well they performed on a dirt trail in the forest. Almost like walking barefoot, but with support and protection. In addition to looking good, their understated profile made my size 13 feet look less massive. They do provide a snug fit, so next pair I'll buy a half size bigger. Very satisfied ... MoreI was intrigued by the look and concept of the trail glove and decided to give them a try and ordered a pair. When I opened the box and picked one up, I was surprised at how light they were. When I put them on, they fit very well, and almost seemed like another layer of tough, yet pliable skin on my feet. I first tried a short walk around the block, and found the shoes did not give my 240 pounds the cushion I had hoped for. I then went to a nearby trail and was happy to see how well they performed on a dirt trail in the forest. Almost like walking barefoot, but with support and protection. In addition to looking good, their understated profile made my size 13 feet look less massive. They do provide a snug fit, so next pair I'll buy a half size bigger. Very satisfied with this purchase. Once again, Merrell did not disappoint.
They are great shoes although definitely not for beginners if you are just starting out using barefoot style shoes. I went all in and used them right from the start with no transition exercises or anything and I had a slight bit of foot pain mainly in the heels but after a few weeks it was fine. They are too thin in the toe area if you want to wear these with toe spacers on. You can try it but your pinky and big toe would probably be really snug up to the sides of the toe area. The material used for the shoe is pretty stretchy so it would be tolerable I assume. These are definitely not for cold weather use. The material is really thin almost paper thin. Even with thick hiker socks from the Darn Tough brand on, my feet were still cold during these Fall season months ... MoreThey are great shoes although definitely not for beginners if you are just starting out using barefoot style shoes. I went all in and used them right from the start with no transition exercises or anything and I had a slight bit of foot pain mainly in the heels but after a few weeks it was fine. They are too thin in the toe area if you want to wear these with toe spacers on. You can try it but your pinky and big toe would probably be really snug up to the sides of the toe area. The material used for the shoe is pretty stretchy so it would be tolerable I assume. These are definitely not for cold weather use. The material is really thin almost paper thin. Even with thick hiker socks from the Darn Tough brand on, my feet were still cold during these Fall season months with temps being around 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit. Come Winter I probably wouldn't use these at all. The sole is pretty grippy so slipping, in my opinion, will not be an issue. Main reason I wont give it full stars is because of how thin the material is and if used as a daily I think the durability will not hold up especially if you want to use them to run in.
I have worn a size 12 shoe my entire adult life, but had to order a 13 in these because my toes hit the end of the shoe while walking down stairs in a 12. So, if you're even remotely on the fence, order a size up.Second, you see that rock guard / coating to prolong life along the pinky toe? It doesn't extend far enough up and forward, and I'm beginning to see wear in the fabric already; it's been less than a month of moderate use.A tip for wearing: tie these looser than you do any other shoe you've ever worn. They flex with your foot with less tension. Why? I have no idea, but they're uncomfortable and prohibitive otherwise, and I already pay attention to how tight I lace my running shoes.Third, as for being barefoot, you'll notice the toe box is larger than ... MoreI have worn a size 12 shoe my entire adult life, but had to order a 13 in these because my toes hit the end of the shoe while walking down stairs in a 12. So, if you're even remotely on the fence, order a size up.Second, you see that rock guard / coating to prolong life along the pinky toe? It doesn't extend far enough up and forward, and I'm beginning to see wear in the fabric already; it's been less than a month of moderate use.A tip for wearing: tie these looser than you do any other shoe you've ever worn. They flex with your foot with less tension. Why? I have no idea, but they're uncomfortable and prohibitive otherwise, and I already pay attention to how tight I lace my running shoes.Third, as for being barefoot, you'll notice the toe box is larger than most mainstream shoes, but far narrower than other barefoot shoes. I don't notice, but that may be because these are my first foray into the category in over a decade. The first week or two is quite trying, too, but a quick YouTube or Reddit search will tell you as much. Stretch, drink more water, and step carefully. That last bit means lowering your center of gravity (by lowering your hips (read: bend your knees more!)) by ~1/2 inch / ~13 mm, and stepping softly. It's not much, but makes a substantial difference in stride.Some would have you believe you should step by making contact with the ball of your foot first. I disagree with this unless walking downhill or running. Do what makes you comfortable, and experiment with what you can reasonably sustain.Finally, I wanted to believe this shoe was the solution, but it's not. I'll wear them because I can't return them, but I probably won't buy another pair of this iteration.
I'm a seasoned minimal-footwear aficionado who has really struggled over the last year and a half to find a replacement for my well-worn Trail Glove 4s. The TG 6s-- with their rigid soles and bafflingly-NON-minimal arch support were considered and disregarded. After lengthy delays brought on by supply chain difficulties, I was finally able to secure a pair of Vapor Glove 5s over the summer of '22. After five months of wear, I’ve found the shoes are a decidedly mixed bag.My usual 9.5 US proved to be overly constrictive around my toes, not allowing proper toe splay. I was able to exchange them for 10s, which fit better, but now there's a surplus of material that bunches up around the tongue and top of the shoe. The soles are light and allow great ground-feel, but ... MoreI'm a seasoned minimal-footwear aficionado who has really struggled over the last year and a half to find a replacement for my well-worn Trail Glove 4s. The TG 6s-- with their rigid soles and bafflingly-NON-minimal arch support were considered and disregarded. After lengthy delays brought on by supply chain difficulties, I was finally able to secure a pair of Vapor Glove 5s over the summer of '22. After five months of wear, I’ve found the shoes are a decidedly mixed bag.My usual 9.5 US proved to be overly constrictive around my toes, not allowing proper toe splay. I was able to exchange them for 10s, which fit better, but now there's a surplus of material that bunches up around the tongue and top of the shoe. The soles are light and allow great ground-feel, but might be too thin for hardcore trail runners.The aesthetics of the shoes are quite nice for those of you who care about such things, although I’m pretty blah on the colors other than the black. Where the VG5s really excel, however is weight. They are ridiculously light--even with the bunched up extra material on top. If you size them correctly, you'll get a decent minimal running shoe.I like the Vapor Glove 5. I don’t love them. I really wish Merrell would recommit to offering a larger variety of minimal footwear. They've been pairing back in this segment, which given the release of Born To Run 2 this month, seems like a gross miscalculation as minimal footwear is poised for another big boom. Merrell’s bizarre treatment of their previously-excellent minimal footwear portfolio is so odd that despite my ho-hum feelings about this shoe, I’ve purchased a second pair to have in reserve once this pair wears out. I simply don’t trust Merrell to continue to manufacture minimal footwear.I really wish they'd just re-release the Trail Glove 4, as that shoe was the pinnacle of Merrell's running shoe catalogue.
Minimal running does not require great emphasis on a certain part of the sole of your foot, though a precept of minimal running is that the whole foot engages with the earth; generally without the heel strike of jogging, or the toe strike of a sprinter, but you can add that in too. It does give you extraordinary choice over foot strike, center of gravity, stride width, how much you bend your knees to lower you seat, etc; depending on the terrain - this is why you will hear sometimes that running over rocks feels great -and actually you can get a good foot rub or a bit of a stretch on a large root, bearing in mind that you should learn to use your "center" and other muscle groups to support your body. The flexibility of the Merrell Vapor Glove 5 is optimal for anyone ... MoreMinimal running does not require great emphasis on a certain part of the sole of your foot, though a precept of minimal running is that the whole foot engages with the earth; generally without the heel strike of jogging, or the toe strike of a sprinter, but you can add that in too. It does give you extraordinary choice over foot strike, center of gravity, stride width, how much you bend your knees to lower you seat, etc; depending on the terrain - this is why you will hear sometimes that running over rocks feels great -and actually you can get a good foot rub or a bit of a stretch on a large root, bearing in mind that you should learn to use your "center" and other muscle groups to support your body. The flexibility of the Merrell Vapor Glove 5 is optimal for anyone who prefers the use of the whole foot and sole employed more like the hand in rock climbing. In minimal running you can go from walking to running. or running to the classic jog, it's your choice. The minimal running literature and how-to videos can help you to understand, but since minimal running, especially off-road, can be a source of freedom from obsession, free yourself, don't sign up for a new bible. If you want to drive yourself to cover miles, you can do it - I'd recommend running on the soft: dirt, grass, trails.. If you want to take a slow pace, stay in a vertical center of gravity, lower your seat, and reduce the width of your stride. If you ever wanted to dance for miles, explore minimal running. If you are "out of shape' explore walking/ running: you can roll in and out of minimal running with slight changes to lowering your seat and quickening your pace (not necessarily your stride width), and elevating off the ground, then back to a walk in one fluid movement. The Merrell Vapor Glove 5 has a nice flexible arch and you can invert your foot and stretch your arch as with dance shoes. The grid on the sole needs to be able to catch the ground a little better. The fabric is awfully thin and my toe joint will eventually tear a rip in the inner side.
I'm a long-time user of the Trail Gloves (TG1, actually -- I hoarded 12 pairs when they came out). But I was scared off the new Trail Gloves (5) because many of the qualities I enjoyed about the original TGs are now far gone.Note that I before I bought these, I tried Xero HFS, and Lems Primal, so I'm also reviewing these in light of my experience with those shoes.Pros:- Wide toe box. But it isn't so wide that your feet are swimming in them. (Lems were a bit too spacious)- Feel for the ground. They might be too thin for some -- they are certainly thinner than the old TG1s, but I find them sufficient, especially as they are supposed to be minimalist shoes anyway.- Almost sock-like, but not like TG1s. They're nimble, enough to make the shoe feel like it's ... MoreI'm a long-time user of the Trail Gloves (TG1, actually -- I hoarded 12 pairs when they came out). But I was scared off the new Trail Gloves (5) because many of the qualities I enjoyed about the original TGs are now far gone.Note that I before I bought these, I tried Xero HFS, and Lems Primal, so I'm also reviewing these in light of my experience with those shoes.Pros:- Wide toe box. But it isn't so wide that your feet are swimming in them. (Lems were a bit too spacious)- Feel for the ground. They might be too thin for some -- they are certainly thinner than the old TG1s, but I find them sufficient, especially as they are supposed to be minimalist shoes anyway.- Almost sock-like, but not like TG1s. They're nimble, enough to make the shoe feel like it's going to hang on to your feet, and certainly better than the Xero HFS, which felt more like sandals in shoe form.- Sole grip is pretty good for dry surface. I'm looking to see how this affects longevity. (Lems soles were terribly slippery)Cons:- Low toe area (inconsistent manufacturing). I ordered 2x pairs, but the second pair has a lowered toe area, which is crushing my big toe. I'm trying to resolve this by wedging something in there in the hopes of stretching it out. If it doesn't work, it's a deal breaker, because I'm not going through the pain of another toe injury.- Treads are tame. I would have run on wet trails on my TG1s, but I would be less inclined to do so with this one. They're fine for dry trails, I would think.I have slender feet (for US8), and VG5 tend to be slightly spacious at sides of my feet, but may have a tendency to be smaller lengthwise.If I can fix the low toe area issue, that would mean I can overcome manufacturing inconsistencies and look to buying more pairs.I would have easily given this shoe 5 stars if it weren't for that low toe ceiling defect.
Seems like a great introduction to barefoot-style shoes. Super light, comfortable, and the sole seems tough enough for how thin it is.I wore these backpacking for the first time this weekend - they did their job, but my feet were more sore than usual afterwards. Nice ground feel, but by nature there is little protection from rocks and roots that might stub or poke you. Traction on wet surfaces was great and these dry quickly if they get wet.I would reconsider if I had to carry a lot of weight - these are probably more aimed for the loadless trail activities. If you carry 20+ pounds with these shoes you will feel the difference afterwards.Fit is fine. Great shape, roomy toe box. I’m a consistent size 10 and these have some wiggle - can fix with some tight ... MoreSeems like a great introduction to barefoot-style shoes. Super light, comfortable, and the sole seems tough enough for how thin it is.I wore these backpacking for the first time this weekend - they did their job, but my feet were more sore than usual afterwards. Nice ground feel, but by nature there is little protection from rocks and roots that might stub or poke you. Traction on wet surfaces was great and these dry quickly if they get wet.I would reconsider if I had to carry a lot of weight - these are probably more aimed for the loadless trail activities. If you carry 20+ pounds with these shoes you will feel the difference afterwards.Fit is fine. Great shape, roomy toe box. I’m a consistent size 10 and these have some wiggle - can fix with some tight lacing.All in all they do their job, for their category I think these shoes are great.
Comfortable and bio-mechanically healthy, I've been a devotee of barefoot footwear since my first Road Glove circa 2012. I bought the Vapor Glove not as a running shoe but as a lightweight, easily packable travel shoe. In black, the styling is subdued enough for casual social occasions as well as hiking about. I did take a sharpie to the conspicuous Merrell logo though--bit too garish for me.I ordered true to size and am pleased with the fit. Unlike the Trail Glove the Vapor has no intrusive and distracting arch support. You get minimal stack height with good ground feel. The Vibram outsole is softer and more pliable than expected with smaller lugs that may be inadequate in trail conditions. I've also noticed the shoes tendency to squeak but it's only a bother if ... MoreComfortable and bio-mechanically healthy, I've been a devotee of barefoot footwear since my first Road Glove circa 2012. I bought the Vapor Glove not as a running shoe but as a lightweight, easily packable travel shoe. In black, the styling is subdued enough for casual social occasions as well as hiking about. I did take a sharpie to the conspicuous Merrell logo though--bit too garish for me.I ordered true to size and am pleased with the fit. Unlike the Trail Glove the Vapor has no intrusive and distracting arch support. You get minimal stack height with good ground feel. The Vibram outsole is softer and more pliable than expected with smaller lugs that may be inadequate in trail conditions. I've also noticed the shoes tendency to squeak but it's only a bother if scuffing or pivoting on tiled or linoleum floors; when walking normally it's not an issue.Not owning these shoes long I can't comment on durability but will say this about price: the Vapor Glove is among the least expensive barefoot shoes commonly available.
The vapor glove 5 has a serious problem with the toe box. I (70yo male) have worn only the merrell vapor glove since the original version and have considered it the ultimate all-around shoe for all occasions, including running. This latest version has a toe box that caused bruising of my big toenail so severe I nearly lost the nail. That was on a six mile run. I have been running for almost 40 years logging 20-25 miles a week, barefoot style for the past 12 or 13 years. This is the only injury I have ever experienced in my entire running career. I wear a size 7.5. It seems as though vapor glove 5 changed the material used to protect the toenail from cutting into the top of the shoe, and it feels like a change from a soft glove into a rigid metal cage. Very ... MoreThe vapor glove 5 has a serious problem with the toe box. I (70yo male) have worn only the merrell vapor glove since the original version and have considered it the ultimate all-around shoe for all occasions, including running. This latest version has a toe box that caused bruising of my big toenail so severe I nearly lost the nail. That was on a six mile run. I have been running for almost 40 years logging 20-25 miles a week, barefoot style for the past 12 or 13 years. This is the only injury I have ever experienced in my entire running career. I wear a size 7.5. It seems as though vapor glove 5 changed the material used to protect the toenail from cutting into the top of the shoe, and it feels like a change from a soft glove into a rigid metal cage. Very disappointing. Perhaps moving to a larger shoe size could make a difference but not sure I am willing to take the chance considering the direction merrell keeps taking this model.Also, the sole tread keeps changing for the worse. The original version through to the vapor glove 3 was by far the best tread ever with unsurpassed road feel. Version 4 was bad and now version 5 is even worse. This newest sole just packs the dirt and mud into the tread lessening traction and reducing quality road feel. It also seems more rigid and less flexible than previous versions. Design flaws keep degrading the vapor glove from what was once the ultimate barefoot running shoe to second rate.One last comment on the upside of the vapor glove 5 is the change to the tongue. I won't be able to try it any longer but before this new version the tongue did not stay in place very well and always slipped to one side or the other. This new design seemed to be an improvement.
| Care Instructions | Hand Wash |
| Sole Material | Rubber |
| Outer Material | Leather |
| Closure Type | Lace-Up |
The 5th version of our famous barely-there minimalist shoe is designed to mimic the shape of the human foot, keeping it in the position it would be in without shoes. Version 5 features and improved fit and increased abrasion-resistance.
The 5th version of our famous barely-there minimalist shoe is designed to mimic the shape of the human foot, keeping it in the position it would be in without shoes. Version 5 features and improved fit and increased abrasion-resistance.
The 5th version of our famous barely-there minimalist shoe is designed to mimic the shape of the human foot, keeping it in the position it would be in without shoes. Version 5 features and improved fit and increased abrasion-resistance.
The 5th version of our famous barely-there minimalist shoe is designed to mimic the shape of the human foot, keeping it in the position it would be in without shoes. Version 5 features and improved fit and increased abrasion-resistance.
