The minimal movement in running shoes has taken hold. It’s changed forever how we think about and approach the sport. It’s also changed how we buy gear. If you’re thinking about transitioning to a more minimal approach to your running, just about every manufacturer builds a shoe that addresses the prerequisites, chief among them a more modest drop from heel to toe – ideally nine millimeters or less. Here are three shoes from top-tier companies that can put you in the sweet spot:
ASICS Gel-NEO33 – Stability – Great look and great grip, the GEL-NEO uses the company’s Integrated Guidance System to control pronation. It fits slim. See review.
Overall rating:
[Rating:4/5]
Nike Zoom Elite+ – Neutral – The plushest shoe in the test but surprisingly not the heaviest. We liked the unique upper design and ventilation scheme. See review.
Overall rating:
[Rating:4/5]
Pearl Isumi Streak II – Performance Neutral – This fast lightweight shoe eschews fancy gel inserts and plush padding for simple, straightforward foam. See review.
Overall rating:
[Rating:4/5]
The above manufacturers are obviously not the only companies in this game. We’ve also tested the Saucony Mirage and the Inov-8 255 and found them to be terrific offerings.
If you’re considering a more minimal shoe, definitely go slow, gradually building mileage on your new chosen footwear. And if you have advice or questions, please leave us a comment below.