After wear testing more than 100+ minimalist shoes for the past 2 yrs, we view from prototypes to first generation to the current second generation minimalist running shoes. And they’ve come a long way. Because these would be the latest as well as running shoe technology, these shoes are not cheap and will also require a transition period for the majority of runners.
Do not except to be able to buy one footwear that will meet all your needs. Different activities require shoes with various characteristics and it is unrealistic to except to be able to purchase one multitasking pair of shoes. For instance, running shoes have to be flexible and cushioned, whereas walking shoes need to be stiff and supportive.
Consider what you are wearing before you go shoe shopping. If you are planning on spending money on some fancy shoes, you’ll want to wear the outfit that they’ll opt for or something that’s just like fancy. Wearing casual clothes like yoga pants and old T-shirts could make fancy shoes look different than they will look by having an outfit that is just as stylish.
While you shop for kids’ shoes, make certain there is room for additional growth. Allow just a little on the thumbs width in the end of your child’s great toe to the end from the shoe. This enables room for that child’s foot to grow. A salesman can help, too.
SKORA FORM
SKORA FORM is built on a platform composed of the REALFIT last, developed to offer a unique anatomical fit that closely matches the foot’s shape. The woking platform also includes a zero-drop outsole-midsole with minimal cushioning along with a curved section profile in both the loads of. This enables for optimal natural movement and performance. It is also designed with asymmetric lacing and no-tongue construction to supply a glove-like fit and premium performance.
Merrell Road Glove (Dash Glove for women)
Run naturally with the Road glove by connecting you to the earth as well as your unique natural stride. Its supportive fabric and mesh upper breathes and secures the foot. Zero-drop cushioning lands the feet pancake-flat, aligning your body and strengthening muscles. A specialized forefoot plate and a Vibram barefoot sole add bruise protection and traction. There isn’t any removable insole and is created for sockless wear. Wash as needed in cold water, gentle cycle and air dry.
Altra Samson (Delilah for women)
The Samson combines body of The Adam having a lace-up design and stronger midsole. It features razor-siped soles that grip onto nearly any surface. This shoe could be worn in BareSole configuration or with its A-Bound energy return insole for added versatility.
Asics Minimus Zero Road
The new Road Zero is the dream shoe that high mileage minimal runners happen to be waiting for. Easy and durable, this is actually the first Asics road-focused model to use durable Vibram rubber. The outsole is Vibram R-Lite and the design is patterned to provide rubber only in necessary wear areas. The big low lugs aid in reducing wear and also the supple rubber adds bounce towards the ride.
VIVOBAREFOOT Aqua Lite (Lucy Lite for women)
The Aqua Lite is made from the lightest VIVOBAREFOOT sole and extra wide anatomic shape for optimum proprioception while still providing superior protection. Tongue and heel pull loop for easier on/off. Hydrophobic mesh and no-stitch microfiber upper helps you to minimize irritation. Removable and washable insole made of 100% recycled foam. It has a moisture controlling bamboo-charcoal compound to keep feet feeling fresher.
Vibram Five Fingers SeeYa
The brand new ultra-streamlined VFF SeeYa is Vibram’s newest performance choice for serious minimalist runners. Designed to bring you even closer to the barefoot sensation, they’ve radically reduced overall weight and material having a more breathable mesh upper to provide true, performance-driven footwear. The minimal rubber thickness in the outsole maximizes proprioception and flexibility, while a gentle TPU midsole further reduces thickness and weight for natural movement.
For additional running shoe reviews and academic articles on running and injuries, check out the Natural Running Center.