How to Choose Running Shoes

This product is not available.
Stay connected with the ground beneath your feet. The women's Merrell Vapor Glove 5 shoes are barely-there, minimalist trainers for your everyday runs, workouts and cross-training sessions.
Shop similar productsImported.
View all Merrell Women's Road-Running ShoesBest Use | Fitness Running |
---|---|
Running Shoe Support | Neutral |
Running Shoe Cushioning | Barefoot |
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm) | 0 |
Heel Stack Height (mm) | 6.5 |
Forefoot Stack Height (mm) | 6.5 |
Footwear Height | Ankle |
Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
Upper | Mesh/TPU |
Lining | Recycled mesh (40% recycled) |
Midsole | EVA |
Outsole | Vibram EcoDura rubber |
Weight (Pair) | 10 ounces |
Gender | Women's |
Sustainability | Contains recycled materials |
5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
U.S. Women's | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 |
UK | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 |
EU | 35 | 35.5 | 36 | 37 | 37.5 | 38 | 38.5 | 39 | 40 | 40.5 | 41 | 42 | 42.5 | 43 | 43.5 |
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
The footbed/sole separated from the shoe in under 1 week on both of the big kid shoes I bought. Return/replacement process is a joke.
I have had numerous pairs of Merrell shoes, mainly “barefoot”. I have always been a size 8. This recent pair was a size 8 however, after several days of wearing them my feet hurt, especially my toes. Thought I ordered maybe the wrong size, but NO, size in shoe is 8. Compared with 2 of my older pair and they were “shorter” than my previous shoes. Have not tried to return because of the hassle. Bought a another brand at a local store where I could try on and walk around.
I received these as a replacement since the tongue in my 4’s was defective. I was very disappointed when I put them on. The end of the shoe curves in at the big toe not leaving room for toe splay. Also the toe guards are so hard it makes the shoe feel too small, it really hurts the tops of my toes. The toe guards are also noticeably uneven on the pair that was sent to me. This is my 4th version of the vapor glove and the changes to the fit and laces just make me sad. The 2&3 had the most barefoot feel, I really wish you could bring that fit back but with a more durable upper.
I loved the Vapor Glove 4. I have 3 pair of them in different colors. I am disappointed with the Vapor Glove 5. They cost too much for a discontinued shoe. The quality control doesn't seem to be as good as the Vapor Glove 4. The shoes run a bit small in comparison. I measure a 7.5 but buy size 8 sneakers. My toes touch the end of the shoe. The 5 doesn't have a separate tongue. I might ease into liking them better (I bought 2 pair) but feel meh about them. By the way, I also loved the Vapor Glove 3. I wish the Vapor Glove 4 were still available in different colors.
We appreciate your feedback. Thank you.
It's alright. Not as good as previous models. Narrow in the foot but not as severe a change as in the Trail Glove model. Extremely squeaky. So far hardwood, vinyl plank, linoleum, tile, hospital flooring and laminate floors cause extremely loud squeaki6with the slightest movement. Wish I could have found that out but you can only try them for a minute or so without wearing the security thing off that makes them indelible for returnsbfor being "worn". They are decent enough. But the narrower footbed is a bit uncomfortable and the squeaking is almost unbearable. I would have returned them even though I kind of like them.
I've been running exclusively in Vapor Gloves for years and was a little disappointed with the 5s, specifically the lack of a tongue. I keep my laces pretty loose and prefer a loose fit across the top of my foot (at the highest point of my arch). With there not being a tongue, there's significantly less adjustability in that area, and the 5s feel tight in a way that I don't like. I can imagine that the lack of tongue would feel more comfortable for some, but I'll be returning these.
I bought these a few weeks ago and absolutely love them. They certainly serve their purpose. I'm in my 30's and needed to correct my posture, I've been a heel runner/walker my entire life. I wear these almost daily as well as run in them. They are super lightweight with amazing grip. Just a bit of advice, if you wear conventional tennis shoes such as Nike and switch to these, be prepared for some soreness as these are nothing like Nike. My lower back was a bit sore due to being forced to use correct posture. They are basically true to size but are a bit snug. If you're a 7 you may want to try a 7.5. That's just my preference, try before you buy.
We're happy that these are working out so well for you! Thank you for your feedback and 5 stars!
Read many reviews stating that these were a great "entry-level" option for those looking to transition to minimalist shoes. I ordered my usual size, but these were surprisingly too small. My big toe was coming up against the end of the toe box (both with and without socks). I was also surprised by how narrow these are considering they are catering to the minimalist/barefoot market. I don't have wide feet, but these were definitely compressing in on the sides much like a Converse or Nike. The ordering, shipping, and return process was easy so no complaints there. Unfortunately, these just aren't for me and I will be looking elsewhere for minimalist shoe options.
I've been wearing barefoot shoes for nearly 30 years. I don't wear them exclusively (in winter have to go to something more substantial and with a better grip) yet do prefer them 9 months out of the year - especially when I take my daily walks or hike. I feel like they help me maintain my balance and flexibility. I'm now 75 years old and can attest that walking close to the earth truly does help with this. I've bought several pairs of Merrell's barefoot-style shoes and will continue to do so. These shoes hold up well, are extremely comfortable right from the box and look great on my feet! I highly recommend.
Thank you for recommending Merrell, Joan!
The flexibility for the foot on my runs in the minimalist shoes is so healthy. I run in hilly terrain a lot and added very easily my half insole to prevent plantar fasciitis. The sock design is so good that I tried out running without socks and it works great for me. I love my Merrell running shoes and this is probably my tenth pair.