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The benefit of running in minimal shoes is the improved strength provided by intermittent stress. However, the smaller the difference between the heel height and the forefoot height (referred to as the heel-to-forefoot drop), the more stress is placed on the kinetic chain—the muscles and tendons from the feet to the hips and related structures beyond. This requires a gradual adaptation that varies from one person to another. Using a minimalist shoe will affect your running in a positive way when used in moderation. Here we have taken a look at eight models that provide an overview of multiple solutions from across the running shoe industry. Keep in mind that these are more training aids than training shoes in the traditional sense, so use the web resources provided by the various brands (as well as searching out other online resources) and adapt them to your own running.
Merrell’s approach with the Trail Glove (and the women-specific Pace Glove) is a dramatic departure from its usual trail shoe offerings. Working with Vibram, a longtime partner, Merrell has developed a new outersole that’s durable and provides good traction in a much thinner piece of rubber.
Altra is a new brand that approaches minimalism by reducing materials and shaping the mid/outersoles and upper to the foot. The midsole is a thin layer for just enough cushioning when combined with the Strobel board and innersole, and it’s equal height in both the heel and the forefoot, i.e., no pitch or heel-to-forefoot drop.
