Merrell Vapor Glove 6 Minimalist Shoe Review
I’ve been wearing minimalist barefoot shoes for nearly a decade, and Merrell has been one of my trusted brands from the start. One of my oldest pairs is the Merrell Vapor Glove, which I originally bought for my kids. When they didn’t wear them, I kept them — and more than seven years later, they’re still going strong. I use them for yard work around thorns and holly trees, and they’ve survived at least 10 cycles in the washing machine, proving just how durable Merrell barefoot shoes can be.
The Highlights of Merrell’s Vapor Glove Minimalist Shoe
Ultra-minimalist Design – zero-drop platform with just a 6 mm sole for a true barefoot feel.
Lightweight & Flexible – moves naturally with your foot for comfort during any activity.
Breathable Mesh Upper – keeps feet cool and reduces sweat compared to less-ventilated shoes.
Versatile Performance – reliable for running, hiking, yard work, gym workouts, and everyday wear.
Durability Tested – holds up through river crossings, tough terrain, and multiple machine washes.
Eco-conscious Build – made with recycled mesh and Vibram EcoStep outsole for sustainable design.
Lightweight Minimalist Barefoot Shoe with Zero-Drop & 6mm Sole
The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is one of the most minimalist barefoot shoes available, designed with a zero-drop platform and a thin 6 mm sole.
Reviewers consistently highlight its exceptional flexibility, lightweight design, and foot-shaped toe box, making it a strong choice for runners, hikers, and gym workouts who want natural movement.
Its breathable recycled mesh upper and Vibram EcoStep outsole provide eco-friendly durability, while odor control features keep them fresh even after heavy use.
In my experience, the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 feels incredibly flexible, allowing my feet and toes to move naturally the way barefoot shoes should. They’re lightweight with a breathable mesh upper that keeps my feet cool, even during long wear. I once tried a pair of Vans (again, I had originally bought for my kids), but unlike the Merrells, those made my feet sweat and feel uncomfortable.
I love how minimal the sole is on the Merrell Vapor Glove 6. While I prefer to be barefoot whenever possible, when I do need shoes, I choose ones with a thin sole that keeps me connected to the ground. With just 6 mm sole thickness, the Vapor Glove allows me to feel more natural and grounded compared to thick, cushioned soles that separate your feet from the Earth.
Merrell Minimalist Shoe Performance & Versatility
When it comes to performance, the Vapor Glove 6 excels at offering a true barefoot experience with plenty of agility and responsiveness on roads, soft trails, and indoor training.
Users praise the roomy toe box for comfort, its fast-drying materials for wet conditions, and its versatility across different activities. Many runners consider it an affordable entry into minimalist footwear, often calling it one of the best barefoot running shoes for those transitioning away from traditional sneakers.
I’ve worn the Merrell Vapor Glove for just about everything — from running and hiking to yard work, gym workouts, and even wading through the river. No matter the activity, they’ve stayed comfortable and dependable, making them one of the most versatile minimalist barefoot shoes I’ve owned.
The Takeaway
After more than seven years of wearing Merrell barefoot shoes, I can honestly say they’re the pair I keep reaching for. If you want shoes that are breathable, durable, easy to wash, and truly comfortable, the Vapor Glove 6 is worth it.
If you’ve never worn barefoot minimalist shoes, I would recommend starting slow and easy your way into it because it will feel very different. I would also recommend taking shoes off completely while you are in your yard or in the woods. This will help you build up foot strength and transition away from the thick soles of traditional shoes.
Let Us Know
Have you tried Merrell Barefoot Shoes? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear your experience!
The Research
2021 — Curtis
Daily activity in minimal footwear increases foot strength
A study showed that six months of daily wear in minimalist footwear boosts foot muscle strength by an average of 57.4%, supporting healthier balance and gait.
2020 — Petersen
Walking barefoot vs. with minimalist footwear – influence on gait in younger and older adults
A study noted that walking in minimalist shoes can improve static balance and gait stability, offering protection while retaining benefits of barefoot walking.
2012 — Lieberman
What We Can Learn About Running from Barefoot Running: An Evolutionary Medical Perspective
Research on footstrike patterns confirmed that minimalist or barefoot runners often adopt forefoot strikes, reducing collision forces compared to heel-strike patterns typical of cushioned running shoes.
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