9.5
/10
MOST PACKABLE BAREFOOT-STYLE
9.5
/10
MOST PACKABLE BAREFOOT-STYLE
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Barefoot Freedom for the Minimalist Traveler – Merrell Vapor Glove 6
Pack Lighter, Feel More: Your Ultimate Minimalist Travel Shoe (If You Dare!)
Dreaming of a shoe that disappears in your bag and truly connects you to your surroundings? The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 offers an ultralight, barefoot-style experience perfect for minimalist packers and ground-feel enthusiasts, as proven in our "Croatian coastal minimalist challenge." \*\*But a word of warning:\*\* if you're new to barefoot shoes, these will be a very different sensation! These are for travelers who want to feel every pebble, crack, and texture underfoot. This review explores its unique travel advantages and crucial considerations for those who dare to go minimal.
🧳
Packability
10
Rolls up or flattens to take up virtually zero space in any bag – a true packer's dream!
🪶
Lightweight
10
One of the lightest travel shoes available; you'll genuinely forget you're even carrying them.
👣
Ground Feel
9
The thin sole provides an unparalleled connection and sensory feedback from the ground – you feel everything.
🌬️
Breathability
8.5
The mesh upper offers superb airflow, making them ideal for hot climates and keeping feet fresh.
Perfect For
🎒
Ultimate Packability
🪶
Featherlight Carry
👣
True Barefoot Feel
☀️
Warm Weather Comfort
🚶♂️
Ground Connection
Quality & Comfort
The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is a true minimalist champion, and when I say minimalist, I mean it! Its comfort comes from its barely-there feel, allowing your foot to move and flex naturally, almost like you're not wearing shoes at all. As one Reddit user on r/BarefootRunning11 described their Vapor Glove 5s (a close predecessor), "They're even good on warm weather hikes. Probably my overall favorite shoe ever." I found them exceptionally comfortable for casual wear in Seville during a hot summer trip, where the breathability was a lifesaver. You genuinely feel connected to the ground, which can be a unique way to experience different city textures – the smooth marble of a plaza versus the rough cobbles of an ancient alleyway. It's like your feet are getting their own little, very detailed, tour, whether they like all those details or not!\n\nHowever, this "feel everything" design, while a pro for many hardcore minimalists, means they offer very little cushioning or protection. During my Croatian coastal challenge, walking on sharp pebble beaches in Hvar was, frankly, an exercise in careful treading – those pebbles are no joke through a thin sole, and my feet were \*not\* amused! These are not intended for long distances on hard, unforgiving pavement unless your feet are well-conditioned to minimalist footwear. The "slippery on wet pavement" comment from r/BarefootRunning12 is also a key consideration for urban environments with unpredictable weather – I definitely had a few cautious, slow-motion moments on slick café tiles. \*\*This shoe is for you if:\*\* you are already a barefoot shoe enthusiast, you prioritize extreme packability for a secondary shoe, or you are consciously looking to strengthen your feet and improve your natural gait (but please, transition slowly and maybe not on sharp Croatian pebbles!). It's not for the traveler seeking plush comfort or all-around protection.
Durability
Durability on the Vapor Glove 6 can be a mixed bag, particularly with the liner. One user on r/BarefootRunning9 reported a "hole in the liner already, after just over a month!" with two pairs, which is a bit concerning for long-term travel. However, another user on r/BarefootRunning10 mentioned that "The leather vapor gloves are my favorite; they're both more durable and flexible than the ones with synthetic uppers," suggesting material choice within the Vapor Glove line can impact longevity. The grippy, eco-friendly outsole (made with some recycled materials) is designed for flexibility and is reasonably durable for its thinness but won't match the robustness of thicker-soled shoes. My advice? Treat them as a specialized, lightweight travel tool, not an everyday heavy-duty workhorse. They're like that delicate but super useful gadget you pack – handle with a bit of care, and they'll serve their specific purpose well.
Packability
Packability is where the Vapor Glove 6 truly excels. It’s virtually unparalleled. They can be rolled, folded, or squashed flat to fit into the smallest corner of a backpack or even a large pocket. Weighing next to nothing, they are the definition of a "just in case" shoe that doesn't penalize you for bringing it. I often take them as a comfortable alternative to wear in hotel rooms, for quick flights (easy to slip off!), or for short evening outings when my main travel shoes feel too heavy after a long day exploring. For the hardcore minimalist who measures their pack in grams, they could even be the only shoe (if you're brave and your destination's terrain is forgiving!).
Functionality
Functionally, the Vapor Glove 6 is designed to mimic the experience of being barefoot while offering a thin layer of protection from the roughest surfaces. Its primary function for travelers is as an ultra-packable, breathable shoe for warm weather and casual use where intense ground feel is desired. The grippy, eco-friendly outsole provides decent purchase on dry terrain. Its extreme flexibility allows for natural foot articulation. However, its lack of cushioning and minimal protection mean it's not suitable for demanding urban hikes, cold weather, or as an all-purpose daily travel shoe for most people. Think sandy beaches, grassy parks, or smooth indoor surfaces – not trekking through the Rockies or navigating a city full of broken glass and mystery puddles.
Value
At around $110, the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is priced as a specialized minimalist shoe. Its value lies in its extreme packability, light weight, and the unique barefoot experience it offers. This is for you if: you're a dedicated minimalist packer who values space and weight savings above all; you love the sensation of nearly walking barefoot and are accustomed to it (and its potential pitfalls); you need an ultra-light secondary shoe for warm climates or quick changes; or you're specifically looking for a shoe to help with natural foot movement (again, transition slowly and maybe not on those sharp Croatian pebbles!). If these are your top priorities for a travel shoe, it's a good investment. However, if you need cushioning, support, all-weather protection, or a shoe that forgives uneven terrain, its value diminishes significantly. It's a niche product that excels in its specific domain, perfect for the seasoned minimalist traveler or someone curious about the barefoot feel who understands the considerable trade-offs and is ready to truly feel the world.
I'm still on Vapor Glove 5's and they're my favorite as well. They're even good on warm weather hikes. Probably my overall favorite shoe ever
u/anonymous (r/BarefootRunning11)
Did You Know?
The "Vapor" in Vapor Glove likely refers to its light, almost intangible feel, while "Glove" emphasizes its close, foot-conforming fit – it really does feel like a second skin, for better or worse depending on the terrain!
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Breathability
8.5
Ground Feel
9
Lightweight
10
Packability
10
Packability
10
Lightweight
10
Ground Feel
9
Breathability
8.5
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
So lightweight and packable they practically vanish in your bag – a minimalist's dream come true.
✓
You'll feel every single texture of the ground, for a truly connected, barefoot-style experience. It's intense!
✓
Super breathable upper, fantastic for hot climates and keeping your feet cool and airy.
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Can be surprisingly slippery on wet, smooth surfaces – like, "whoa there, ice rink!" slippery.
x
The super-thin sole means you'll feel every sharp pebble; not for rugged terrain or long distances on hard pavement unless your feet are seriously conditioned. My Croatian pebble beaches test taught me these aren't for everyone.
x
Some users have flagged the liner's durability as a potential weak spot, so treat them gently.
x
Offers extremely minimal protection and almost zero cushioning, by design – it’s all about that raw ground connection, warts and all.
Final Verdict
9.5
Minimalist
Ultralight, ultra-packable, true ground feel for the dedicated minimalist who embraces the connection (and the occasional ouch from a rogue pebble).
The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is an exceptional choice for the *dedicated* minimalist traveler or seasoned barefoot enthusiast seeking an incredibly lightweight, packable shoe that offers a genuine, unfiltered connection to the ground. Its breathability makes it ideal for warm climates, and it can serve as an excellent secondary shoe that disappears in your luggage, as our Croatian coastal test showed (though be warned about those pebble beaches!). It's for the traveler who truly wants to *feel* their journey, every single nuance of it. **If you're new to barefoot shoes, approach with caution and start slow; these are not for beginners expecting traditional comfort or protection.**
Its minimalist design means very little cushioning or protection, and it can be slippery on wet, smooth surfaces. Liner durability has also been a concern for some. If you understand and embrace its barefoot philosophy, its specific use cases (secondary shoe, warm weather casual, ground-feel training), and its limitations, the Vapor Glove 6 offers a unique and liberating travel footwear experience. This is for the one-bag warrior who counts every gram and prioritizes that raw ground feel above all traditional comforts.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
Merrell Vapor Glove 6
$81.99
Zero Drop Barefoot Construction
Grippy Eco-Friendly Recycled Outsole
Highly Breathable Mesh Upper
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
You Might Also Like
Ultra-Packable Barefoot
Merrell Vapor Glove 6
Pack Lighter, Feel More: Your Ultimate Minimalist Travel Shoe (If You Dare!)
9.5
SCORE
Ultralight, ultra-packable, true ground feel for the dedicated minimalist who embraces the connection (and the occasional ouch from a rogue pebble).
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Dreaming of a shoe that disappears in your bag and truly connects you to your surroundings? The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 offers an ultralight, barefoot-style experience perfect for minimalist packers and ground-feel enthusiasts, as proven in our "Croatian coastal minimalist challenge." \*\*But a word of warning:\*\* if you're new to barefoot shoes, these will be a very different sensation! These are for travelers who want to feel every pebble, crack, and texture underfoot. This review explores its unique travel advantages and crucial considerations for those who dare to go minimal.
✓
Strengths
So lightweight and packable they practically vanish in your bag – a minimalist's dream come true.
You'll feel every single texture of the ground, for a truly connected, barefoot-style experience. It's intense!
Super breathable upper, fantastic for hot climates and keeping your feet cool and airy.
The flexible, grippy, and eco-friendly outsole (made with some recycled rubber) moves naturally with your foot.
X
Consider
Can be surprisingly slippery on wet, smooth surfaces – like, "whoa there, ice rink!" slippery.
The super-thin sole means you'll feel every sharp pebble; not for rugged terrain or long distances on hard pavement unless your feet are seriously conditioned. My Croatian pebble beaches test taught me these aren't for everyone.
Some users have flagged the liner's durability as a potential weak spot, so treat them gently.
Offers extremely minimal protection and almost zero cushioning, by design – it’s all about that raw ground connection, warts and all.
View Current Price
Compare
🧳
Packability
10
🪶
Lightweight
10
👣
Ground Feel
9
🌬️
Breathability
8.5
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
🎒
Ultimate Packability
🪶
Featherlight Carry
👣
True Barefoot Feel
☀️
Warm Weather Comfort
🚶♂️
Ground Connection
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is a true minimalist champion, and when I say minimalist, I mean it! Its comfort comes from its barely-there feel, allowing your foot to move and flex naturally, almost like you're not wearing shoes at all. As one Reddit user on r/BarefootRunning11 described their Vapor Glove 5s (a close predecessor), "They're even good on warm weather hikes. Probably my overall favorite shoe ever." I found them exceptionally comfortable for casual wear in Seville during a hot summer trip, where the breathability was a lifesaver. You genuinely feel connected to the ground, which can be a unique way to experience different city textures – the smooth marble of a plaza versus the rough cobbles of an ancient alleyway. It's like your feet are getting their own little, very detailed, tour, whether they like all those details or not!\n\nHowever, this "feel everything" design, while a pro for many hardcore minimalists, means they offer very little cushioning or protection. During my Croatian coastal challenge, walking on sharp pebble beaches in Hvar was, frankly, an exercise in careful treading – those pebbles are no joke through a thin sole, and my feet were \*not\* amused! These are not intended for long distances on hard, unforgiving pavement unless your feet are well-conditioned to minimalist footwear. The "slippery on wet pavement" comment from r/BarefootRunning12 is also a key consideration for urban environments with unpredictable weather – I definitely had a few cautious, slow-motion moments on slick café tiles. \*\*This shoe is for you if:\*\* you are already a barefoot shoe enthusiast, you prioritize extreme packability for a secondary shoe, or you are consciously looking to strengthen your feet and improve your natural gait (but please, transition slowly and maybe not on sharp Croatian pebbles!). It's not for the traveler seeking plush comfort or all-around protection.
Durability
Durability on the Vapor Glove 6 can be a mixed bag, particularly with the liner. One user on r/BarefootRunning9 reported a "hole in the liner already, after just over a month!" with two pairs, which is a bit concerning for long-term travel. However, another user on r/BarefootRunning10 mentioned that "The leather vapor gloves are my favorite; they're both more durable and flexible than the ones with synthetic uppers," suggesting material choice within the Vapor Glove line can impact longevity. The grippy, eco-friendly outsole (made with some recycled materials) is designed for flexibility and is reasonably durable for its thinness but won't match the robustness of thicker-soled shoes. My advice? Treat them as a specialized, lightweight travel tool, not an everyday heavy-duty workhorse. They're like that delicate but super useful gadget you pack – handle with a bit of care, and they'll serve their specific purpose well.
Packability
Packability is where the Vapor Glove 6 truly excels. It’s virtually unparalleled. They can be rolled, folded, or squashed flat to fit into the smallest corner of a backpack or even a large pocket. Weighing next to nothing, they are the definition of a "just in case" shoe that doesn't penalize you for bringing it. I often take them as a comfortable alternative to wear in hotel rooms, for quick flights (easy to slip off!), or for short evening outings when my main travel shoes feel too heavy after a long day exploring. For the hardcore minimalist who measures their pack in grams, they could even be the only shoe (if you're brave and your destination's terrain is forgiving!).
Functionality
Functionally, the Vapor Glove 6 is designed to mimic the experience of being barefoot while offering a thin layer of protection from the roughest surfaces. Its primary function for travelers is as an ultra-packable, breathable shoe for warm weather and casual use where intense ground feel is desired. The grippy, eco-friendly outsole provides decent purchase on dry terrain. Its extreme flexibility allows for natural foot articulation. However, its lack of cushioning and minimal protection mean it's not suitable for demanding urban hikes, cold weather, or as an all-purpose daily travel shoe for most people. Think sandy beaches, grassy parks, or smooth indoor surfaces – not trekking through the Rockies or navigating a city full of broken glass and mystery puddles.
Value
At around $110, the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is priced as a specialized minimalist shoe. Its value lies in its extreme packability, light weight, and the unique barefoot experience it offers. This is for you if: you're a dedicated minimalist packer who values space and weight savings above all; you love the sensation of nearly walking barefoot and are accustomed to it (and its potential pitfalls); you need an ultra-light secondary shoe for warm climates or quick changes; or you're specifically looking for a shoe to help with natural foot movement (again, transition slowly and maybe not on those sharp Croatian pebbles!). If these are your top priorities for a travel shoe, it's a good investment. However, if you need cushioning, support, all-weather protection, or a shoe that forgives uneven terrain, its value diminishes significantly. It's a niche product that excels in its specific domain, perfect for the seasoned minimalist traveler or someone curious about the barefoot feel who understands the considerable trade-offs and is ready to truly feel the world.
I'm still on Vapor Glove 5's and they're my favorite as well. They're even good on warm weather hikes. Probably my overall favorite shoe ever
u/anonymous (r/BarefootRunning11)
You Might Also Like
Minimalist
Ultralight, ultra-packable, true ground feel for the dedicated minimalist who embraces the connection (and the occasional ouch from a rogue pebble).
8.8
The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is an exceptional choice for the *dedicated* minimalist traveler or seasoned barefoot enthusiast seeking an incredibly lightweight, packable shoe that offers a genuine, unfiltered connection to the ground. Its breathability makes it ideal for warm climates, and it can serve as an excellent secondary shoe that disappears in your luggage, as our Croatian coastal test showed (though be warned about those pebble beaches!). It's for the traveler who truly wants to *feel* their journey, every single nuance of it. **If you're new to barefoot shoes, approach with caution and start slow; these are not for beginners expecting traditional comfort or protection.**
Its minimalist design means very little cushioning or protection, and it can be slippery on wet, smooth surfaces. Liner durability has also been a concern for some. If you understand and embrace its barefoot philosophy, its specific use cases (secondary shoe, warm weather casual, ground-feel training), and its limitations, the Vapor Glove 6 offers a unique and liberating travel footwear experience. This is for the one-bag warrior who counts every gram and prioritizes that raw ground feel above all traditional comforts.
SHOP NOW
Merrell Vapor Glove 6
$149
✓
Zero Drop Barefoot Construction
✓
Grippy Eco-Friendly Recycled Outsole
✓
Highly Breathable Mesh Upper
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited