MerrellMen's Vapor Glove 6 Sneaker

I've run in Merrell Vapor Glove (VG) 1,3 and 4 and, for me, my feet and my priorities, it feels like these are the best yet. Early days, though, so I can't speak for their durability.The fit and feel of these is phenomenal. The combination of super-lightweight uppers, slightly wider toe box (than VG4, which was narrower than the much-loved VG3), extreme flexibility and padded tongue make them lovely to wear.Stylistically, I am far more comfortable wearing these out and about than any previous model - Merrell have evolved the look past the 'clown shoes' vibe that they used to have, IMHO.The outsole has a more aggressive tread than previous models, which is good for me as I have previously struggled uphill in the wet on the country lanes and muddy farm tracks I run on.The built-in insole means a marginally more padded ride than before. I'm fine with this, but if you prioritise ground feel above all else, if you tread on a 50p want to know if it's heads or tails, then this might be a slight step backwards for you.Make no mistake though, this is still a hardcore zero-drop minimalist running shoe that will absolutely spank you if you transition from conventional stacked-heel shoes without investing time and effort to build foot strength and technique. Keith Bateman and Heidi Jones' Older Yet Faster programme is a great place to start.Overall, very happy so far, will update with a note about durability.Thanks to Merrell for continuing to support minimalist runners with great shoes. And shame on all the mainstream brands for abandoning this great branch of our sport in favour of pushing over-priced technology-led shoes with midsoles that collapse after a few hundred miles.

The fit and feel of this shoe is amazing. I bought it to replace my worn out vapor glove 3 (700km). The first pair I bought directly from Merrell. The sole was coming away from the upper. This is the second pair I bought. After 31km of running and 5km of walking the lugs on the right foot were almost completely worn down where I land. After a few more runs I was almost through the sole. This is completely unacceptable for a £100 shoe designed for running. I have now returned this pair after only 1 week of use. Completely disappointed in this shoe as I adored my vapor glove 3!