Make no mistake, Merrell’s Vapor line is the epitome of minimalist design and is the brand’s only road running shoe on the list. Be forewarned though roadrunners: the Vapor Glove 4 is only for those who have experience in barefoot running or running with minimal cushioning. As the name suggests, the Vapor Glove 4 is as close to wearing nothing on your feet as you can get. There is no midsole cushioning, but a Trail Protect plate is present just above the Vibram rubber outsole, where there is not a lug to be found. The outsole gets some traction from the Vibram rubber but, for the most part, traction is minimal to allow for the small muscles of your ankles, feet, and legs to provide the balance they were meant to provide. The Vapor 4 has a wider toe box than previous models to allow for greater toe splay, also providing natural stability and traction for experienced minimalist runners. Support is also provided through the upper’s thin mesh, which really does feel like a glove and hugs your foot with as much support as you can possibly get from such a minimalist shoe. Is this the running shoe for everyone? N.O. But it is the road running shoe for those ladies who are devotees of the minimalist movement.