Minimalist Shoes: Reviews

Pros and cons: Minimalist shoes

Advocates say barefoot running -- or the barefoot-style feel provided by minimalist shoes -- allows a runner to feel the subtle changes in terrain, and lets the feet, legs and body adjust to better prepare for impact. The lower the shoe is to the ground and the more natural the position of the foot, the better. Minimal cushioning also encourages more of a forefoot strike, where most of the impact is absorbed at the front of the foot. Some experts and trainers say this can result in more efficient running and less injury than the more common heel-strike style of running.

The Vibram FiveFingers is by far the best-known barefoot-style, zero-drop running brand. Easily recognized by its unique toe pods, the Bikila (*Est. $100) weighs just 5.7 ounces and is a mere 7.2 mm off the ground. Several consumers say this minimalist shoe changed the way they run; the encouraged forefoot strike is particularly beneficial for those who have suffered from previous injury. Reviewers also say that some calf soreness can be expected because the Bikila changes which muscles are used more prominently compared to more traditional running shoes. The toe pods are unexpectedly comfortable, but reviewers say the shoe does take some getting used to and should be worn around the house before running in them. Many also say durability is noticeably poorer than other running shoes. Runners with a higher arch should consider the newer Vibram FiveFingers Bikila LS (*Est. $100), which features a lacing mechanism to adjust for higher insteps. For those who focus more on trail running, the brand also offers the TrekSport (*Est. $100).

Merrell has also ventured into the minimalist trail-running shoe market. While they aren't true zero-drop running shoes, the women's Merrell Pace Glove (*Est. $100) and men's Merrell Trail Glove (*Est. $110) have a minuscule 1.4-mm heel-to-toe drop and weigh just 6 ounces. The shoes have received high praise from expert reviewers, earning the distinction of Best Debut in the April 2011 Runner's World Shoe Guide. The women's Pace Glove was named the best Trail Running Shoe in Shape's 2011 Running Shoe Guide.  

Altra Running makes true zero-drop running shoes. The gender-specific Altra Adam and Altra Eve (*Est. $100) sit just 3.4 mm off the ground and weigh less than 5 ounces. However, reviewers say that runners looking for a bit more protection may want to consider the Altra Instinct (*Est. $100). It's substantially heavier at 8.8 ounces but sits 12 mm off the ground. For those who are just transitioning into barefoot-style running shoes, this can be seen as a major benefit.

The eco-friendly Terra Plana Evo (*Est. $160) and newer, more budget-friendly Terra Plana Neo (*Est. $120) also impress reviewers. Both are slightly heavier than comparable models at 8.5 ounces and sit higher off the ground at about 11 mm. Still, reviewers say the Evo is a good bet for those who like a barefoot feel with a bit more protection and durability. The Neo has a style more reminiscent of a traditional sneaker. Testers warn, however, that the minimalist shoe feels too loose at the arch/midfoot.

The Saucony Hattori (*Est. $80) represents the first attempt at a true zero-drop shoe by a major brand; it weighs just 4.4 ounces. There are very few reviews of this minimalist shoe, but those we did find were quite positive. Reviewers say the Hattori is roomy and comfortable, although some add that it could benefit from more support along the arch and that it rubbed a bit while running -- particularly for those prone to sweaty feet.

The Saucony Kinvara (*Est. $90) also earns high marks. Straddling the line between a lightweight traditional shoe and a minimalist shoe (we included it in our report on running shoes), it sits 28 mm off the ground. This is nearly as high as a regular running shoe, plus it has a similar fit and feel. At just 7.7 ounces and with a low 4 mm heel-to-toe drop, however, it still provides many of the highlights of a minimalist shoe. Experts say the shoe is a good transition model for those looking to ease into the minimalist/barefoot trend.

For those interested in minimalist but not necessarily zero-drop running shoes, there are many options. Traditionally popular brands such as Brooks and Nike also offer minimalist shoe models, but some running communities consider these to be "reduced running" shoes rather than "minimalist." Those that have earned the most praise and popularity include the Nike Free Run+ (*Est. $85); the updated Free Run+2 (*Est. $90) was released in April 2011. Like the Saucony Kinvara, the Nike Free Run+ straddles the line between a traditional and minimalist shoe with a weight of 9 ounces and a 7 mm heel-to-toe drop. Reviewers say this super-flexible shoe is ideal for use as a recovery or race-day shoe. 

The 7.2-ounce, 8 mm-drop Brooks Green Silence (*Est. $100) is another favorite, with reviewers saying it moves easily with the foot. The shoe is composed of recycled material and breaks down more readily than most running shoes, making it a good pick for eco-minded runners.