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Top 10 Best Minimalist Running Shoes: According to a Runner’s Need 2024

Our creative team in collaboration with professional sportspeople and highly-skilled podiatrists has researched the modern market of minimalist running shoes to find the best options for runners with different needs.

So, each item of our top-10 is the winner in its category – all best of the best are gathered here in one list, just for you.

Minimalist running shoes have gained a wide popularity among runners these days. They are lightweight, comfortable; they guarantee a maximally natural (barefoot) in-shoe feel.

But are they equally perfect for marathons and short races, people with normal feet and for those, who have some foot issues?

They’re not for everyone, but they might be for you.

So, if you want to buy an ideal minimalist running shoe that fits you personally, first figure out all “features” and “issues” of your feet. Are you an overpronator or have flat feet? Is the width normal or narrow? Any knee problems?

Also, don’t forget about the surface. Are you going to run outdoors or on a treadmill only? Or both?

As soon as you answer these questions, move towards our top-10 list to choose the perfect minimalist running shoes for you in 2018.

Top 10 Best Minimalist Running Shoes

1. Saucony Endorphin Racer 2

Saucony Endorphin Racer 2

Saucony’s Endorphin Racer 2 was definitely built to go fast without weighing a runner down.

Due to its minimalist zero heel-to-toe drop, this running shoe guarantees a good feel for the surface and protects the underfoot at the same time.

Comparing with the previous version of the Saucony Endorphin Racer, the second edition features only a single layer of mesh on the upper, which doesn’t add to the weight, but provides the foot with enough breathability and protection.

Also, the midsole SSL EVA on the forefoot was replaced with an EVERUN, and the XT-LITE material with a PWRTRAC tacky rubber compound to improve this racing flat’s cushioning, responsiveness, traction, and durability.

Stuffed with up-to-date shoe technologies like EVERUN (for cushioning), FLEXFILM (for lightweight, seamless, and flexible feel), PWRTRAC (for traction and abrasion resistance), this racer is a good value for the money.

However, when you go to buy them, make sure you get a bigger size than usual. Since they are not really true to their size. Moreover, they don’t offer the durable lateral size.

PROS

  • Budget-friendly price.
  • Lightweight without sacrificing the underfoot protection.
  • Wide choice of bright colorways.
  • Sufficient grip even when running on a wet surface.
  • Quick and responsive.
  • The shape of the shoe follows the natural lines of the underfoot.
  • Minimal stack height (the offset is 0mm).
  • Seamless and breathable upper construction.
  • Responsive cushioning.

CONS

  • Not true-to-size (get a half size bigger).
  • Narrow toe box.
  • The insoles are not removable.
  • Not very durable on the lateral side.

2. Inov-8 Terraclaw 220

Inov-8 Terraclaw 220

Versatile, comfortable, and lightweight – what else can a runner dream about? Delivering an impressive grip and protection on a variety of surfaces, the Inov-8 Terraclaw 220 is meant to increase the performance on moderately technical trails.

Featuring the standard length and width, the Terraclaw 220 is a comfortable option for male and female sportspeople with medium and slightly wider feet.

The foot is kept cool, dry, and odor-free during the most exhausting races, which along with the lightweight minimalist construction of this shoe, makes it a favorite of most runners.

Wanna know the best part? It won’t burn a hole in your pocket. It is quite pocket friendly.

However, if you have got narrow feet then these shoes are not for you. Moreover, they are not suitable for the people with wide feet too.

PROS

  • Comfortable fit for medium and slightly wide feet.
  • Bright colorful design.
  • Low price.
  • Dual-C sticky rubber outsole for optimum grip.
  • Diagonal lace-up closure wraps the foot comfortably.
  • Protection from rocks and debris on the road.
  • Added drainage in the upper for more breathability and comfort.
  • The Meta-Flex groove for a natural forefoot flex.
  • The toe cap against bruising.
  • EVA foam absorbs shock and has reliable energy return properties.

CONS

  • Limited choice of colorways.
  • Not appropriate for people with narrow and wide feet.

3. Mizuno Wave Hitogami 2

Mizuno Wave Hitogami 2

Mizuno Wave Hitogami 2 is not a 100% minimalist shoe – it has got a rather high drop (9 mm). However, if you’re looking for a minimalist shoe for long-distance races like an ultramarathon, tempo runs, or high-mileage training, this responsive support and lightweight comfort is exactly what you need.

Comparing with the previous version, this model has a more curved forefoot for better flexibility and toe spring. Also, it offers a cozier in-shoe feel due to the softer lining on the inside.

Hitogami 2 really holds the foot down; it creates the responsiveness in the forefoot and the firmness in the ride – a good combo for picking up speed. The shoe is well-ventilated as well.

Are you on the edge between minimalist racers and regular running shoe? Mizuno Wave Hitogami 2 is the resolution! Still don’t believe? Check out all those great reviews on Amazon.

However, the upper part of shoes is not very reliable. You might face some issues with it. And they do not offer a variety of colors.

PROS

  • Reasonable price.
  • Smooth heel-to-toe transition.
  • Comfortable and adjusted fit.
  • Breathable upper design.
  • Ideal for distance runs.
  • Super-soft in-shoe feel.
  • Extremely lightweight and flexible.
  • 9 mm drop offset feels lower than the considerable drop.
  • Superb traction and grip on various surfaces.
  • True-to-size

CONS

  • Lack of color options.
  • High drop.
  • May need a break0in period.
  • Issues with the durability of the upper are possible.

4. New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo

New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo

Why is the New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo so good for flat footed runners? – It’s not too minimalist (has a 4 mm drop), the sole is made of the Fresh Foam material, so that the shoe feels firmer and supports the foot against pronation, protects from injuries, and pushes your feet forward not to let them get tired quickly.

The mild stability, gradual and unobtrusive support, responsive ride, as well as good stretch and flexibility in right areas are packed into a rather attractive minimal design, which belongs to the lightweight category.

These shoes are made wiith the finest quality of materials. That makes them highly durable. Which is a good thing since you don’t want to buy shoes every month. 

It is actually quite comfy comparatively which gives you an option to start with this one. So that you can adapt to wearing minimalist shoes.

PROS

  • Soft plush interior for comfortable glove-like fit.
  • Seamless construction.
  • Durable materials.
  • Stable ride.
  • Medium and wide widths are available.
  • An ideal blend of cushioning, stability, and minimalism.
  • Breathable mesh and a perforated midfoot saddle for moisture management.
  • Rather lightweight for a stability shoe.

CONS

  • Not true-to-size.

5. Newton MV3

Newton MV3

Today, it’s not a problem to find a shoe for speed races and short distance runs, but it is a problem to find such minimalist shoe for wide fit.

And here it is – the resolution – the Newton MV3, available in different width, offering an impressive lightweight performance.

Minimalist design and 0 drops of this racer allow for a natural, efficient stride. The upper is made of well-ventilated mesh, which is also stretchable and supports the foot at the same time.

Energy release, responsive cushioning, and shock absorption are offered thanks to midsole unit – it’s just meant for your easy pace.

The only downside is that the outer sole might not be really durable. You might face issues with it later in the future. 

However, the best part is that they are very budget friendly and will give you a responsive yet firm ride.

PROS

  • True to size.
  • Low price.
  • Seamless upper construction.
  • Antibacterial sockliner.
  • Lightweight and very responsive.
  • Highly breathable and quickly-drying upper.
  • Wide toe box with TPU toe cap for comfortable protection.
  • Widened midfoot for added stability.
  • A High-Density Rubber for good traction

CONS

  • Issues with the outsole durability are possible.
  • Lack of support in the heel.

6. Nike Free Flyknit 4.0Nike Free Flyknit 4.0

The Nike Free Flyknit 4.0 is worthy to become a part of your running shoe arsenal, especially if you’re looking for a stylish minimalist running shoe for high arches (however, Nike Flyknit Racer also is a favorite of neutral runners).

The Flyknit Racer features narrow-to-medium width, allowing you to accustom the orthotics if needed. Cushioning, which is another essential of a running sneaker, is guaranteed by a highly-responsive and lightweight midsole with full-length cushy foam.

And, finally, great arch support and firm sole will make you feel super secure and comfy while doing the long-distance races in these stylish sneakers from Nike.

Nike Free Flyknit 4.0 is a catchy combo of perfect characteristics, wearing advantages, minimalism, and fantastic external design with an incredible amount of colorways available.

Here’s the kicker, it is a little heavy on your pocket. Moreover, the outer sole of the shoes might give you a hard time. As it is not really durable.

PROS

  • Eye-catchy color schemes – great variety of styles.
  • True to size.
  • Barefoot wear.
  • Seamless upper construction.
  • The high-quality materials invest into the durability of the shoe.
  • Proper cushioning and arch support.
  • Removable insoles.
  • Exceptional breathability.
  • Comfortable and flexible.
  • The Flywire integrations to enhance the fit.
  • Very lightweight – perfect for running.
  • Sock-like fit for ideal fixation without risks of injury or irritation.
  • Can be worn casually.

CONS

  • High price.
  • May feel a bit narrow.
  • Issues with outsoles durability are possible.

7. Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail

Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail

Despite the Vibram’s FiveFingers V-Trail was designed as a multisurface minimalist running shoe, it’s not the best option for rocky roads and muddy areas, so the treadmill is an ideal space for these weirdos.

Megagrip compound on the outsole gives proper grip and durability, whatever the surface is. The 3D Coon technology delivers flexibility and steadiness.

The midsole of this racer doesn’t consist of traditional foam units, however, it has a 2-mm EVA insole to soften the stride.

Polyester and Lycra, used in the upper, guarantee stretchy and breathable running experience, encouraging the natural movement of the feet.

These shoes are offering many benefits however, they might feel a little tight. Also, they are pricey, and on top of that they look really strange too. The design a little different.

PROS

  • Comfortable and breathable.
  • A tight and secure grip on a treadmill and slick surfaces.
  • Natural feel – comfy enough to wear without socks
  • Durability.
  • Very lightweight.
  • The proper amount of cushioning for a five-fingered shoe.
  • Provides efficient running experience and brings less strain to the knees compared to ordinary running shoes.
  • Well-padded heel area and toe bumpers at the ends of the toes.

CONS

  • Look a bit weird.
  • High price.
  • The colors of the shoe may bleed and stain the foot.
  • Require a break-in period.
  • May feel a bit tight or narrow.
  • Challenging on and off because of its unique foot-shaped design.

8. Brooks Pure Cadence 6

Brooks Pure Cadence 6

If you feel that your feet like roll inward when running, you need a pair of minimalist shoes that can handle overpronation. And Brooks Pure Cadence 6 is a decent choice.

Featuring a BioMogo DNA midsole, this sneaker gives the right amount of cushioning in the right areas of the foot. Also, the racer has GuideRails technology, which significantly eases overpronating feet into a more secure position.

These shoes come with laces that are elastic. However, since they are really stretchy, it makes it a little difficult to tight the shoes. And running in loose shoes isn’t a smart choice.

Unlike the previous version of the Brooks Pure Cadence, the 6th edition has a more subdued color scheme in shades of black and gray. Also, it’s more lightweight than its predecessor.

PROS

  • Lightweight.
  • Highly-responsive foam cushioning.
  • A quality supportive mechanism that handles overpronation.
  • Fits like a sock around the foot.
  • Good breathability due to the breathable fabric used for the upper unit.
  • Excellent grip and traction.

CONS

  • Rather expensive.
  • Issues with outsoles durability are possible.
  • Not true-to-size (half size smaller).
  • Feels a bit narrow in the mid-foot section.
  • The stretchy laces are difficult to tighten

9. On Cloud

On Cloud

In spite of the On Cloud is not as widely-known shoe brand as the New Balance or Nike, the quality of this running shoe speaks for itself.

The most unusual feature of this shoe is the midsole – it consists of separate “Clouds”, which are affixed to a flexible “speedboard”.

These elements move individually to reduce the shock from every step. The separated nature of the On Cloud’s midsole makes it a great minimalist shoe for heavy runners, who usually have problems with finding an appropriate minimalist shoe.

Also, the On Cloud is available in different widths, so that you’re not gonna suffer from stiff and rubbing running sneakers again.

PROS

  • Bright and eye-catchy colorways available.
  • 3D air mesh upper.
  • Well ventilated.
  • Lightweight construction.
  • Flexibility and cushioning due to its unique midsole construction.
  • The CloudTec sole that responds to individual runner’s gait.
  • Enough room in the toe box for toe splay.
  • Easy on and off.

CONS

  • Rather expensive.
  • Durability issues are possible.
  • Stones may become lodged in the tracks.

10.New Balance Minimus 10v4

New Balance Minimus 10

The New Balance Minimus 10v4 is a representative of the famous minimalist shoe family, loved by barefoot running fans.

It’s close to the ground enough to let you feel every single step and control your speed and performance but still properly cushioned in the right places to keep your feet safe, preventing them from strains and injuries.

This model looks rather appealing, without sacrificing the durability of the upper, which is made of breathable and stretchable synthetic mesh.

And the seamless construction invests in the stylish external design and the minimalist look of the racer.

RevLite foam technology is a high-quality material that runs the entire length of the New Balance Minimus 10v4. Its effect is enhanced due to the properly padded foam footbed on the inside of the shoe.

The perfect construction of this racer allows using it both on and off road – versatility would never hurt. If you want to take on the trails with ease and comfort, the lightweight minimalist Minimus 10v4 from the New Balance is exactly what you need.

PROS

  • Stylish colors and design of the shoe.
  • Budget-friendly price.
  • The upper material on the inside is comfortable enough, without causing any irritation, even with socks.
  • Suitably lightweight as a minimal trail running shoe.
  • Highly-responsive midsole with the proper amount of cushioning and shock-absorption.
  • The sole unit was strong enough to withstand impact and surface friction.
  • Appropriate for different surfaces, including sand and mud.
  • Perfect for obstacle courses.

CONS

  • Not true-to-size.
  • The platform is rather high as for the minimalist shoe.
  • Lack of stability in the heel section.
  • Narrow toe box may rub against the toes uncomfortably.

What Are Minimalist Shoes?

Every time when you are going to take up some sport or any physical exercises, don’t forget about the importance of the shoes you’ll use.

The necessity of the correct selection of sports footwear for running (as well as for all other exercises) has been proved by all doctors and sports instructors.

However, sometimes it may be confusing to choose the best pair of running shoes from the variety of the same ones.

The name of minimalist shoes speaks for itself. Unfortunately, some misunderstanding with definitions occurs when people discuss what a minimalist shoe is.

Before choosing the minimalist shoes for running, let‘s figure out the proper explanation of the minimalist shoes meaning.

Minimalist shoes are considered to be the ones, which provide minimal interference with the natural movement of the foot.

The main aim of these shoes is to create possible running conditions, which closely resemble barefoot running. Thus, minimalist shoes are the shoes, possessing the following characteristics:

  • high flexibility
  • low heel to toe drop
  • low weight
  • low stack height
  • the absence of motion control and stability devices

To define how minimalist shoes are there is such a notion as a “Minimalist Index”, which is able to score the degree of “minimalist shoes”, using a scale of 0 to 100.

However, you don’t need to calculate the results for each pair of shoes by yourself. As a rule, all popular companies have a detailed review and description of all their shoes.

In general understanding, it’s possible to distinguish two groups or types of minimalist shoes:

  • minimalist shoes
  • barefoot shoes

Minimalist running shoes represent something in-between traditional running shoes and barefoot running shoes.

While barefoot running shoes have no drop from heel to toe and arch support, minimalist running shoes are characterized by reduced drop from heel to toe, reduced cushioning and arch support.

As for the toe box, it’s wide in barefoot running shoes to provide more space to the toes; toe box of minimalist running shoes is in-between barefoot and traditional ones.

Why is it better to choose minimalist shoes for running?

The usefulness of minimalist shoes for running is reflected in the fact that this type of running shoes may lead to the following results:

  • the changing of your stride
  • the reduction in your impact forces
  • the lowering of different injury risks

Is It Better For You To Run Barefoot?

Before answering the question if it’s better to run barefoot, let’s consider the peculiarities, connected with running in shoes and without any footwear:

  • the most important role of any type of shoes (including sports ones) is to protect our feet on some courses
  • shoes give us more support
  • during running shoes partially absorb the extra pressures, which can be created, for example, by highly arched feet
  • sometimes running shoe over-supports our feet (our feet cannot do what they are designed to do)
  • It’s evident that there are different opinions as for barefoot running and running in footwear. Is there any possible solution for those, who are engaged in the running process? Of course, yes – minimalist running shoes.

The main goal of all minimalist shoes for running is to allow more sensory contact for your feet on the ground, and, in addition, provide your feet with some protection from ground hazards and conditions.

Apart from the advantages of using minimalist shoes when running, which were mentioned above, there are also some others:

  • more flexibility when hitting the pavement or the trail (thin soles will help you to develop a better response while the elasticity will decrease foot fatigue)
  • improved performance of a runner (less cushioning and independence from technical features provide better stability as well as more ground contact)
  • decreased pressure from the body (as a rule, heel striking causes the high pressure from the body)
  • less energy consumption (the lightness of minimalist running shoes reduces the use of energy compared to traditional running shoes, and encourages the natural foot springs and muscles to store and discharge energy)

Despite all the advantages of running in minimalist shoes, some people still ask if it’s better to run barefoot for them or not.

Some experts think that if you haven’t had any difficulties or injuries and run regularly, you don’t have to follow the tendency to run barefoot.

But if you suffer from such problems as shin splints or you don’t have a proper running style, then you should try to run barefoot.

When you run barefoot (here we mean running in minimalist shoes), your alignment is better and you run more from your core.

It makes your arch lower, which increases the capacity of you to run rather fast. Most importantly this is a smart practice to develop stable feet.

How to Choose the Best Minimalist Shoe?Minimalist Shoe

When it comes to the choice of the best minimalist shoes, it’s important to remember that the beauty of such shoes shouldn’t play any role at all here.

You already know that running exercises demand more practical criteria for the selection of running shoes.

As it was mentioned above, minimalist shoes for running have to have reduced cushioning, thin soles and lighter weight than other types of running shoes.

However, these are general characteristics, which are unlikely to help you to choose the ideal pair of minimalist running shoes.

Thus, the following characteristics of best minimalist shoes for running should be taken into your consideration:

  • weight
  • heel to toe drop
  • structure and motion control
  • sole
  • flexibility

It doesn’t matter what kind of running you prefer. In any case, the weight of your running shoes is very important.

Platforms with the light weight don’t drag a runner down as well as facilitate minimalist running. It’s the best variant if your running shoes weigh less than 125 grams.

A low drop from heel to toe is very important for better ground contact. The ideal variant is when your running shoes have less than 1-millimeter heel to toe drop.

The structure of minimalist running shoes should be minimal to imitate barefoot running. The more technologies included in the shoes the less motion control is represented here.

It’s a really good variant when the sole of your shoes for barefoot running has less than 8-millimeter thickness. It’s enough for enhanced proprioception and balance, but good enough for absorbing shock.

The flexibility of good minimalist shoes should be of two types: the flexibility when you press from the heel and toe, and the one, which defines how much you can twist your shoes when turning your toe in one direction and the heel in another one.

Design:

It is a very important factor that you should consider before buying running shoes.

Try to select the minimalist shoes that fit your foot size so that you can comfortably do all your tasks.

Breathability:

Good minimalist shoes must have the facility of breathability to prevent your feet from sweating.

It also helps you to maintain your focus on running and makes you feel comfortable.

Because many people feel uncomfortable with sweating feet and lose their focus.

Comfort:

Your running shoe must be very comfortable so that you can wear it all day without any hesitation or pain.

If you are experiencing any sort of pain or injury during this process. Then you probably need to stop wearing such shoes. As some shoes might work for others, but they are not suitable for you.

Variety:

There is a large variety of minimalist shoes so that you can choose the one according to your choice.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Minimalist Shoes:

By wearing minimalist shoes, you get a rough idea about how to run barefoot. As most of the studies suggest it is a beneficial experience for runners.

Running barefoot is pretty helpful in developing a lower arch, this means you can run fast.

Moreover, it is a productive habit and an advantageous practice to get a stable foot. This will allow more flexibility, and you will be able to run like a pro. 

Not only that but many runners have adapted this practice since it allows more room for flexibility and elasticity. Moreover, it will increase your pace. How cool is that? Isn’t it?

However, running with minimal shoes will also increase the risk of injury. They are perfect and beneficial for runners. However, they are not a piece of cake for everyone.

However, before trying minimalist shoes. You first need to get used to them. So it would be smart to start with some comfy minimalist shoes. And when you know how it works, you can go for the other ones.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Before buying a minimalist shoe, it is better to complete your research about it.

Whether it is a good choice for you or not. Here are some questions that will surely help you to make this decision.

Are Minimalist Shoes Good for Running?

Yes, minimalist shoes can be good for running.

They are also called barefoot shoes. As compared to traditional shoes, these shoes are light in weight, cushioned less, and lower to the ground.

While providing some barefoot running desirable features, they give some protection to feet

Do You Wear Socks with Minimalist Running Shoes?

It is all your choice. If you want you can wear socks but if you do not want then there is no compulsion for you to wear them.

But if you wear socks then your feet will remain warm and protected from the blister.

With individual toe pockets for barefoot shoes. toe socks are available in the market.

Moreover, in the toes of barefoot shoes, you do not need any extra space as you want in traditional shoes.

What are the Benefits of Minimalist Shoes?

Minimalist shoes are very comfortable and help in running fast.

Their weight is very light and they are well cushioned.

But there are many other benefits of using minimalist shoes. Let’s discuss some of them.

1. Maintain Ankle Flexibility:

There are many shoes in the market that comes with heels.

Even casual running shoes also have raised heels. An increase in the flexibility of the ankle is the best way to improve arches.

But traditional shoes do the opposite of that. Instead of increasing ankle flexibility, it puts calf muscles in a shorter position.

The normal running shoe has around 10 to 12mm heel.

While minimal running shoes have less than 6mm heel.

But it is preferred to have a running shoe that is completely flat. So that you can comfortably run.

2- Better ground feel:

Minimalist running shoes give you a better experience on the ground due to less cushioning.

Also, they have flexible and thin soles that give you a comfortable experience.

3- Get the toes engaged:

Toes get enough room to spread out easily because of the wide toe box. With these shoes, you can easily stretch your feet that give you a comfortable experience.

Moreover, the best part of minimalist running shoes is that they come with fewer toe springs.

These springs help to roll into each step and rock forward.

Are Thin Soles Better for Running?

Yes, thin soles are better for running. Because thick soles increase the force when the fir strikes the ground and move forward.

This may cause injury to the person. Also, with thin soles, you can cover a large distance but with thick soles, you can cover a small distance.

Can You Wear Barefoot Shoes Every Day?

Yes, you can wear barefoot shoes every day.

It is considered best to wear minimalist running shoes every day for a long time as they balance the airflow so that your feet can breathe.

Does Walking Barefoot Improve Balance?

Yes, you can improve your balance by walking straight. As our back gets straighten due to muscles in our feet.

Walking barefoot also prevents the foot from many injuries with improving balance.

How Should a Minimalist Shoe Fit?

Select a minimalist running shoe of your choice. Put it on and slide your toes in the front direction.

The shoes will be large, if between heel cap and heel you adjust your index finger.

The size will be okay if between your feet there is a little distance.

But if between heel and heel cap your pinkie finger gets fit then shoe size is perfect for you.

Conclusion!

The barefoot running is a very popular, it is considered to be more effective than running in traditional sports footwear.

Unfortunately, for most people, such words as “barefoot running” are read literally. However, really effective and useful “barefoot running” doesn’t mean that you have to run without any footwear at all.

Nowadays, a lot of footwear companies have developed perfect minimalist shoes for so-called “barefoot running”.

There is no one ideal minimalist running shoe that suits every runner’s needs, however, there are leaders in different categories of minimalist running sneakers.

It may become a great challenge to choose the right pair of minimalist running shoes, which will be suitable exactly for you.

Although, having searched all the variety of shoes for running, we can say that there is no any ideal and universal variant of minimalist shoes for everybody. It’s up to you to decide what shoes are better to use when running.

However, there are universal rules, which are suitable for everybody when choosing good footwear for running. Follow simple steps, and you’ll improve your running performance and results!