Merrell Vapor Glove 2

PB Junkie

Barefooters
Oct 31, 2011
304
195
43
Idaho
Seems like I searched everywhere for a shoe that was most like not wearing shoes. I'm not a barefoot runner, but I like shoes more like a foot covering without support. I was disappointed to find the VFFs are very lacking with their current models. The only one I would consider is the KSO Evo. I didn't keep the KSO Evos though, as they didn't look like they'd hold up very well with the way the sole is cut. Anyway, enter the Merrell Vapor Glove 2. I tried the original Vapor Gloves, but didn't keep them as they had the feel of an arch in the shoe.

Sizing: I should probably mention that I'm a female, but prefer Merrell men's shoes for the width. I normally wear a size 8 in trail gloves and the antiquated sonic gloves. However, the Vapor Glove 2 runs large. I ended up with a size 7.

These shoes are awesome for me! Even though they don't have much stack height (6 mm), they still mold to your feet after wearing for awhile. I've worn them both with and without socks and they're great both ways. I love that they're lightweight (5.8 oz for size 9) and mesh uppers. For me, they give just enough protection without compromising ground feel.

I will admit that I don't wear them in snow and ice. The traction is best for dry roads. I go back to my trusty Sonic Gloves for more challenging winter conditions.

The price isn't too bad, $85 (or $76.50 with 10% off)

Ratings:

Ground Feel - 5
Zero Drop - 5
Flexibility - 5
Toe Box - 4
Weight - 5
Comfort - 5
Fit - 4
Traction - 3
Durability - 4 (I only have about 80 miles on each of my 2 pairs and you can see a little bit of wear)
Performance - 5
Cross Training - 5 (although I only walk in them)
Design - 5
Aesthetics- 3 (they're kind of dorky looking)
 
I've got the original VGs. No hint of any arch support. Are you thinking of the Trail Gloves? Agreed that they run large. I go a half size smaller than other Merrells. I actually like them better on snow and ice than the Trail Gloves. I can feel when I start to slip, whereas the TGs are aimed at the sky before I even know there's a problem ... no ground feel at all.
 
I've got the original VGs. No hint of any arch support. Are you thinking of the Trail Gloves? Agreed that they run large. I go a half size smaller than other Merrells. I actually like them better on snow and ice than the Trail Gloves. I can feel when I start to slip, whereas the TGs are aimed at the sky before I even know there's a problem ... no ground feel at all.

No, it was definitely the vapor glove. Maybe my left foot is just super sensitive to that. Could also be the arch would have resolved with some wear. Maybe I got a pair with an anomaly? Anyway, I really like the new version.