Performance

Lightness
9
Cushioning
7
Flexibility
9
Responsive
8
Stability
9
Grip
10

Details of Vapor Glove 6

Gender Men , Women
Weight 160 gr
Cushion soft
Runner weight Light
Running gait Neutral
Surface Trail
Use training , Racing
Pace Medium
Foot Normal feet
Strike Forefoot
Distance Short , 10K , Half-marathon
Eco-friendly Recycled material
Colour Blue , Grey , Marroni , Orange , Black
Year 2024

One of the most developed brands in the mountain market is back with its new trail running model. The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 represents the evolution of a minimalist design for trail running with a focus on lightness and superior performance.

Made with recycled materials and a construction that favors the natural posture of the foot, the Vapor Glove 6 are trail running shoes that stand as a sustainable and efficient option for lovers of running in nature. Its adaptability and minimalist design make it a model for routes with few obstacles, where lightness and agility are essential.

Main features and new features of the Merrell Vapor Glove 6

The Vapor Glove 6 are trail running shoes from Merrell that are designed for the mountains, offering maximum performance and lightness thanks to its minimalist construction. The Vibram EcoStep Recycle outsole, made from 30% recycled rubber, provides excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces, ensuring greater strength and durability. In addition, the Merrell Barefoot 2 design helps keep the foot in its natural position, promoting a healthier and more efficient stride.

The upper of the shoes is made with breathable mesh and 100% recycled laces, ensuring optimal ventilation and a secure fit. The gusseted tongue prevents dirt from entering, while the external rear closure at the heel ensures an extra snug fit. In addition, to combat unpleasant odors, the shoes feature an NXT treatment.

Ideal runner profile of the Merrell Vapor Glove 6

The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is ideal for runners who prefer a minimalist running experience and want a more direct connection to the terrain. They are designed for those who run on light to moderately easy trails where obstacles are minimal and changes in direction are few. Runners who enjoy the sensation of barefoot running, but with the added protection of a high quality sole, will find these shoes their perfect companion.

Therefore, we are talking about shoes that are perfect for runners looking to improve their running technique and efficiency, as long as they are willing to face a much more natural stride. Merrell's Barefoot 2 design allows for an ideal foot posture, promoting a more controlled and efficient stride on mixed terrain.

Recommended distances for the Merrell Vapor Glove 6

As far as target distances are concerned, the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is especially suited for short and medium distances, where the focus is on speed and agility. Their lightweight, minimalist design makes them ideal for fast training sessions and races where the focus is on maximizing performance on less technical terrain. The 2 mm lugged outsole provides sufficient traction on varied surfaces without adding unnecessary weight.

For longer distances, these shoes may not be the best choice due to their minimalist design and lack of robust cushioning. However, for runners who are accustomed to barefoot running and have a well-developed technique, Vapor Glove 6 can work over longer distances, as long as the terrain is not overly technical or hilly. Overall, an ideal men's and women's trail running shoes for runners looking for a lightweight, efficient shoe for training and racing over short to medium distances on easy terrain.

Review of Merrell Vapor Glove 6

13 August 2024

Merrell Vapor Glove 6: a minimalist running experience at its best

The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 represents the quintessential minimalist shoe, designed for runners looking for a direct connection to the ground. If you are passionate about barefoot running, these shoes are made for you. With a design that prioritizes lightweight, responsive and environmentally friendly construction, the Vapor Glove 6 presents itself as an option that takes minimalism to the extreme.

First impressions: a direct connection to the ground.

As soon as you put on the Merrell Vapor Glove 6, you realize that these shoes are meant to offer a completely different running experience. The fit is snug, as the name implies, almost as if you were wearing a glove on your feet. This is due in large part to the recycled mesh upper, which in addition to being lightweight and breathable, fits snugly over the foot, providing an unrestricted feeling of security.

The minimalist sole design, with only 4 mm thick combined outsole and insole, is what really makes the difference. This thin layer allows you to feel every stone and every irregularity on the way, something that minimalist runners will greatly appreciate. However, this same feature can be a challenge on more demanding terrain or for those who are not used to this type of footwear.

Sensitivity and traction: the true power of Vapor Glove 6.

The main attraction of the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is the incredible sensitivity it offers. With only 2 mm of Vibram outsole, these shoes allow you to feel the ground like few others do. This is ideal for experienced barefoot running looking for an intimate connection with the ground. Each stride feels natural and reactive, allowing you to adjust your running technique in real time.

Traction is another strength of these shoes. The Vibram Ecostep outsole, made from 30% recycled rubber, provides excellent grip on almost any surface. The lug design, with a depth of 2 mm, is designed to offer multidirectional traction, ensuring good performance on both asphalt and dirt trails. However, on extremely rocky or uneven terrain, the thinness of the sole may cause you to feel too much pressure on your feet, which could be uncomfortable or even painful after several kilometers.

Stability and fit: minimalism at its best

Stability in the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is felt thanks to its glove-like fit. The width of the toe box is adequate to allow the toes to spread naturally, which improves balance and stability when running. This is crucial for barefoot running, as freedom of movement in the toes is essential for good running technique.

The lacing system and the overall design of the upper ensure that the foot remains well supported, preventing it from slipping inside the shoe even on difficult terrain. However, it should be noted that this shoe does not offer much lateral protection, so in technical or rocky terrain, the feet may be more exposed to impacts.

Durability: possible point of improvement

One of the aspects where the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 could improve is in durability. The minimalist design that makes them so light and responsive also makes them less resistant to wear and tear, especially compared to more traditional trail running shoes. The mesh upper, while recycled and environmentally friendly, is quite thin and doesn't offer much protection against abrasions or punctures.

Also, the Vibram outsole, while excellent in traction, could wear out more quickly due to its thinness. This is something to keep in mind if you plan to use them on rougher terrain or if you give them heavy use.

Who are the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 for?

The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 are clearly designed for a specific niche of runners: those looking for a completely minimalist running experience. If you're an experienced barefoot running or if you're looking for a shoe that allows you to feel every detail of the terrain, you'll love these shoes.

However, if you are new to barefoot running or if you prefer a shoe with more cushioning and protection, Vapor Glove 6 may not be the best choice for you. The lack of cushioning and high sensitivity may be too extreme for those accustomed to more conventional shoes.

The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is a firm bet for minimalist runners. They offer a unique running experience, allowing you to connect with the terrain in a way that few other shoes can match. Their ultralight design and environmentally friendly construction are aspects that many runners will appreciate.

However, this shoe is not for everyone. Its extreme sensitivity and lack of protection make it suitable only for those who already have experience in barefoot running or who are looking for a shoe for specific workouts where terrain feel is paramount. If you fit this profile, the Vapor Glove 6 will be an excellent addition to your running gear.

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