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.
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The lowest price for Merrell Vapor Glove 5 Womens Minimalist Running Shoes - Black - 8 right now is $56.87.
Prices last updated 21 Dec 2025.
Merrell Vapor Glove 5 Womens Minimalist Running Shoes - Black - 8
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.
Last updated at 21/12/2025 21:15:52
originally posted on merrell.com
I just got these shoes yesterday and I'm very disappointed in the fit. I wear two kinds of shoes, barefoot merrells and chucks. Merrells are my go to every day everywhere shoe until they wear out. I have walked hundreds of miles in barefoot merrell shoes in different glove models and these are by far the worst. I have only worn this model (vapor glove 5 in mens 8) inside for an hour or so while I did some chores and the shoe is slanting my toe into the toe bed very uncomfortably as if the heel is making my foot slide forward. I looked into returning them but I don't want to pay $5.00 just for trying on a pair of shoes that suck. I relaced them and they are still awkward and uncomfortable. I am glad I bought the women's vapor glove 6 at the same time because those ... MoreI just got these shoes yesterday and I'm very disappointed in the fit. I wear two kinds of shoes, barefoot merrells and chucks. Merrells are my go to every day everywhere shoe until they wear out. I have walked hundreds of miles in barefoot merrell shoes in different glove models and these are by far the worst. I have only worn this model (vapor glove 5 in mens 8) inside for an hour or so while I did some chores and the shoe is slanting my toe into the toe bed very uncomfortably as if the heel is making my foot slide forward. I looked into returning them but I don't want to pay $5.00 just for trying on a pair of shoes that suck. I relaced them and they are still awkward and uncomfortable. I am glad I bought the women's vapor glove 6 at the same time because those shoes are awesome.
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
These were my first try at barefoot shoes before possibly sinking a lot more money into the idea for my next pair, but I like them so much I might just stick with them. The first day was rough - my second toe is longer than my big toe, and both second toes slid forward and felt absolutely smashed into the hard toe cap, both felt very bruised after a short time. I gave them a rest for a few days and then tried again. I went with no socks this time for less slip, and I laced them much tighter. Most shoes hurt if laced tight because I have very high arches, but these are flexible enough that that isn't an issue. I liked them so much more after that. I did get some marks from the folds near the laces, so I bought socks that cover only my arches (meant for mules) so I ... MoreThese were my first try at barefoot shoes before possibly sinking a lot more money into the idea for my next pair, but I like them so much I might just stick with them. The first day was rough - my second toe is longer than my big toe, and both second toes slid forward and felt absolutely smashed into the hard toe cap, both felt very bruised after a short time. I gave them a rest for a few days and then tried again. I went with no socks this time for less slip, and I laced them much tighter. Most shoes hurt if laced tight because I have very high arches, but these are flexible enough that that isn't an issue. I liked them so much more after that. I did get some marks from the folds near the laces, so I bought socks that cover only my arches (meant for mules) so I still have grip at the ball and heel but no marks or pinching from the false tongue. I think I have a perfect system set up now, and recommend them 100%. I did buy my regular size (9) and have no issues regarding my wide toe box and bunion.
| Care Instructions | Machine Wash |
| Sole Material | Rubber |
| Outer Material | Leather |
| Closure Type | Lace-Up |
| Country of origin | China |
I just got these shoes yesterday and I'm very disappointed in the fit. I wear two kinds of shoes, barefoot merrells and chucks. Merrells are my go to every day everywhere shoe until they wear out. I have walked hundreds of miles in barefoot merrell shoes in different glove models and these are by far the worst. I have only worn this model (vapor glove 5 in mens 8) inside for an hour or so while I did some chores and the shoe is slanting my toe into the toe bed very uncomfortably as if the heel is making my foot slide forward. I looked into returning them but I don't want to pay $5.00 just for trying on a pair of shoes that suck. I relaced them and they are still awkward and uncomfortable. I am glad I bought the women's vapor glove 6 at the same time because those ... MoreI just got these shoes yesterday and I'm very disappointed in the fit. I wear two kinds of shoes, barefoot merrells and chucks. Merrells are my go to every day everywhere shoe until they wear out. I have walked hundreds of miles in barefoot merrell shoes in different glove models and these are by far the worst. I have only worn this model (vapor glove 5 in mens 8) inside for an hour or so while I did some chores and the shoe is slanting my toe into the toe bed very uncomfortably as if the heel is making my foot slide forward. I looked into returning them but I don't want to pay $5.00 just for trying on a pair of shoes that suck. I relaced them and they are still awkward and uncomfortable. I am glad I bought the women's vapor glove 6 at the same time because those shoes are awesome.
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.
These were my first try at barefoot shoes before possibly sinking a lot more money into the idea for my next pair, but I like them so much I might just stick with them. The first day was rough - my second toe is longer than my big toe, and both second toes slid forward and felt absolutely smashed into the hard toe cap, both felt very bruised after a short time. I gave them a rest for a few days and then tried again. I went with no socks this time for less slip, and I laced them much tighter. Most shoes hurt if laced tight because I have very high arches, but these are flexible enough that that isn't an issue. I liked them so much more after that. I did get some marks from the folds near the laces, so I bought socks that cover only my arches (meant for mules) so I ... MoreThese were my first try at barefoot shoes before possibly sinking a lot more money into the idea for my next pair, but I like them so much I might just stick with them. The first day was rough - my second toe is longer than my big toe, and both second toes slid forward and felt absolutely smashed into the hard toe cap, both felt very bruised after a short time. I gave them a rest for a few days and then tried again. I went with no socks this time for less slip, and I laced them much tighter. Most shoes hurt if laced tight because I have very high arches, but these are flexible enough that that isn't an issue. I liked them so much more after that. I did get some marks from the folds near the laces, so I bought socks that cover only my arches (meant for mules) so I still have grip at the ball and heel but no marks or pinching from the false tongue. I think I have a perfect system set up now, and recommend them 100%. I did buy my regular size (9) and have no issues regarding my wide toe box and bunion.
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.
My Vapor Glove 4s have been my favorite shoes. I wear them for everything from daily chores, to lifting, to hiking. I was SO disappointed in the Vapor Glove 5s. The opening at the ankle/top of foot is a set circumference. There's some stretch, but it does NOT allow for adjustments if you have a high instep. if the fabric is stretched to the limit, that's it, no give. So that means even with the laces completely undone, the shoe cuts off circulation to the top of my foot. Even sizing up does not help the problem. It just gives me a *longer* shoe that cuts off circulation at the top of my foot. (for the record, I wear either a 6.5W or a 7M in most shoes, including Merrells. I've seldom encountered this issue).So why the redesign? Why not go with the traditional ... MoreMy Vapor Glove 4s have been my favorite shoes. I wear them for everything from daily chores, to lifting, to hiking. I was SO disappointed in the Vapor Glove 5s. The opening at the ankle/top of foot is a set circumference. There's some stretch, but it does NOT allow for adjustments if you have a high instep. if the fabric is stretched to the limit, that's it, no give. So that means even with the laces completely undone, the shoe cuts off circulation to the top of my foot. Even sizing up does not help the problem. It just gives me a *longer* shoe that cuts off circulation at the top of my foot. (for the record, I wear either a 6.5W or a 7M in most shoes, including Merrells. I've seldom encountered this issue).So why the redesign? Why not go with the traditional tongue-and-laces from the 4's?I love my minimalist shoes and wanted to stick with Merrells - they've been my favorites and my go-to for years. But the fit on these (and the Trail Glove 6!) is prohibitive and I'll have to look elsewhere.
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.
I've been shopping for barefoot shoes for almost a year. Trying to decide what my needs are from the shoe. I looked at a lot of different brands I was unfamiliar with before deciding to stick with a brand I've used for over 20 years and never been disappointed. The vapor glove 5 was everything I was looking for in a minimalist shoe for half the price of some of the other brands. It helps me feel connected to the ground I'm running on while giving me the traction I need, even on loose dirt and inclines. I barely notice I'm wearing a shoe at all. I honestly can't think of one thing I would like to see improved. Maybe some kind of odor controlling material as I wear them with no socks, they are starting to have an odor. I was thinking about tossing them in the washing ... MoreI've been shopping for barefoot shoes for almost a year. Trying to decide what my needs are from the shoe. I looked at a lot of different brands I was unfamiliar with before deciding to stick with a brand I've used for over 20 years and never been disappointed. The vapor glove 5 was everything I was looking for in a minimalist shoe for half the price of some of the other brands. It helps me feel connected to the ground I'm running on while giving me the traction I need, even on loose dirt and inclines. I barely notice I'm wearing a shoe at all. I honestly can't think of one thing I would like to see improved. Maybe some kind of odor controlling material as I wear them with no socks, they are starting to have an odor. I was thinking about tossing them in the washing machine.
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 | Machine Wash |
| Sole Material | Rubber |
| Outer Material | Leather |
| Closure Type | Lace-Up |
| Country of origin | China |
