Trail-Running Shoes Buying Guide

Want lightweight performance with a barefoot feel? The women's Merrell Vapor Glove 6 trail-running shoes are designed to let your feet move more naturally, with grip for variable terrain.
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Imported.
View all Merrell Women's Trail-Running ShoesBest Use | Trail Running |
---|---|
Trail-Running Shoe Type | Light-Trail |
Running Shoe Cushioning | Barefoot |
Heel-to-Toe Drop (mm) | 0 |
Heel Stack Height (mm) | 6 |
Forefoot Stack Height (mm) | 6 |
Footwear Height | Ankle |
Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
Upper | 100% recycled mesh |
Lining | 100% recycled mesh |
Outsole | Vibram ECOSTEP Recycle rubber |
Rock Plate | No |
Vegan | Yes |
Weight (Pair) | 11.3 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 |
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Did a lot of research before making this purchase. Needed a barefoot style shoe for long distance running. I have very flat feet and struggle with shooting muscle pain on my dominant side after extended periods of time spent running. Based on running experts recommendations I began looking for a shoe that would instill the feel of barefoot running- which shifts an individual from pressing on their heel first (shooting foot pain) and trains the runner to push off with the front pad of their foot. Almost overnight the pain is gone- after 2 months I feel incredible. Can't wait to see how much it improves my form after 6 months to a year.
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I own about 15 Merrell shoes. They go with me on my walks every morning. My hikes to the national parks. Most comfortable shoes for me.
Right out of the box I hiked 9 miles each day in Sequoia National park and Yosemite. Great shoes.
I’ve had my pair for around a month now and I’ve worn them everywhere- running, hiking, day-to-day wear, dancing, even at work (I’m a baker and I’m on my feet all day), and all I can say is that I love them. I feel so connected to the earth and the minimalist style has gotten me back in touch with muscles I hadn’t used in a long time. I love the low-key appearance and the sole provides the right amount of traction over loose rocks and dirt on hikes. Longest hike I’ve done with these is 7 miles. Good for toughening your feet.
Thanks for the great feedback! We're happy you love them!
Merrell Sneakers Review I recently purchased a pair of Merrell sneakers, and unfortunately, they didn’t quite meet my expectations. The color was significantly darker than what was shown in the pictures, which was disappointing as I was looking for a specific shade. Additionally, the sole feels too thin, offering very little cushioning or support. For someone who spends a lot of time on their feet, this was a noticeable drawback. Lastly, there’s a lack of proper arch support, which makes these sneakers unsuitable for those with foot conditions or anyone needing additional comfort. Overall, even though the shoes were on special, they still don’t feel worth the money.
This is my fourth pair of Vapor Gloves. I've ran a trail marathon in them, use them at the gym and while riding my bike and trot around town in them. Perfect overall shoe. Just like any item that you use a lot, also Vapor Gloves will wear out. The rubber starts smiling from the seams and the bendy parts will get holes. Happy to also note that it's ok to go up or down half a size. They fit equally as snug depending on the sock thickness. If you are that American who travels to Europe wearing your sneakers, make this the sneaker of choice and they can barely tell where you come from.
So far so good. I have only been for one walk and one run in them but would recommend them to others
Comfortable from day 1 Able to take a long trail straight away Love the long laces
I really like Merrill’s “barefoot” styles. I have a pair of the Trail Glove 7 and Vapour Glove 6. I like them for different reasons. They both have a roomy toe box, are light weight and comfortable. The Trail Glove 7 have a noticeably thicker sole and are more reinforced around the sides and toes, so better for rougher terrain (like on a trail). That said, I like the appearance of the Vapour Glove 6 more and find them more comfortable for daily use, but you can feel every rock you step on. I have some feet issues; bunions, callouses and some nerve damage. Most shoes hurt one of these things, but overall the Merrell Glove line does not. I love them.
I originally ordered the men’s VG6 in olive because I didn’t prefer any of the women’s colors, but the sizing just didn’t translate (im a women’s 8 and ordered a 7, too big). Instead I took a chance on the “pink” color, and was delighted to see that they are actually a mauvy purple. I edited the color of my photo to most closely match the actual color of the shoe. So pretty, I absolutely love them. The fit is a little roomier than the VG4, which I’m happy about (gives me a little more “breathing room” and wiggle room for my toes). They feel really balanced and don’t have any pressure points like some of the older versions, and the ankle padding feels very nice and supportive. If you are on the fence due to the color, just get them, you won’t regret it.