11 Minimalist Running Shoes That Look and Feel Amazing

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

MANY SERIOUS runners swear by ultra-cushioned running shoes, which they claim offer an incredibly comfortable stride. But some believe that the less cushioning and support there is, the better. Enter the best minimalist running shoes.

The concept behind minimalist shoes for running is that they can help your ankles and feet get stronger, promoting overall lower body strength and stability. Strengthening the muscles in your feet can also help to protect from injuries up the chain (hello, constantly sore backs).

Shoes in this category are made with a wide toe box, allowing your toes to splay and flex naturally, and the laces are fully adjustable for a customizable fit. They also have a zero-drop sole, meaning that your heel and forefoot are at the same distance from the ground, promoting a natural running form.

"They'll definitely be lighter weight and will have very little to no support, but they still have a good sole to protect you from the ground," says Mark Mendeszoon, MD, a board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in Chardon, Ohio.

Because they're designed not to hinder your foot's natural movement, minimalist runners can be great for those with plantar fasciitis or neutral feet. But, for those who are used to running in a traditional, somewhat cushioned shoe, it will take some adjusting.

"The recommendation is to break the ice by starting with two to three hours a day, then gradually adding on one to two hours," says Mendeszoon. "Typically, after one week, people can then start trying to exercise in the shoes to build up their stamina and acclimate to the shoe."

Be sure to stretch your calves and achilles after each wear, too. Less under-heel lift will have your posterior chain working harder.

If you're ready for a shoe that's designed to let nature do the rest so you can focus on your stride and movement, take a look at the top 11 minimalist running shoes of 2023 below.

Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet | Best Stability Running Shoes | Best Neutral Running Shoes | Best Running Shoes for High Arches

Escalante Racer

The Escalante Racers are a top pick for minimalist runners who value both minimalism and speed. With a lightweight design and responsive cushioning, these shoes are perfect for speed work and long distances on the road or the track.

The zero drop platform encourages a natural footstrike and promotes good running form, while the engineered knit upper provides a snug and breathable fit that adapts to your foot's shape. The Altra Escalante Racer also features a durable rubber outsole with strategic flex grooves, ensuring optimal traction and flexibility.

What do buyers say? "Vibrams (5 Fingers) fan, but been looking for a step up in cushion for a long time and can't find the qualities I'm looking for. Got first pair of Racers a month ago and I'm sold for life," said one Altra Escalante Racer buyer.

Norvan SL 2

This model from Arc'teryx is not only a great pick for minimalist runners, but it's also incredibly on-trend. Designed with a sleek and stylish gorpcore silhouette, the Norvan SL 2 combines both form and function.

The shoe's upper is made of a lightweight and breathable TPU mesh, which keeps your feet cool and comfortable during intense runs and hot weather. Its minimal design ensures a snug and secure fit, and the TPU overlays add durability and support. It also features a Vibram outsole that provides excellent traction and grip, making it the perfect trail running shoe for challenging terrain.

Prio Neo

For those seeking a truly barefoot experience under $100, look no further. Named after the term "proprioception" for better awareness of body movement, the new model of Xero's well-loved Prio shoe uses the same 5mm rubber sole as the brand's super minimal sandals. The Prio Neo features a wide toebox, zero-drop offset, and fully adjustable instep strap, allowing you to fine-tune your fit for optimal comfort and performance.

You can even wear the Prio Neo sans socks since they are barefoot-friendly.

What do buyers say? "I eased into wearing these barefoot style shoes and have no regrets. Started with 30min at work, then an hour, etc. There were a couple of uncomfortable feelings along the way, but now that I’m acclimated 2 months in, I can wear them 10 hours at work, and I walked miles and miles on a trip to Chicago recently. My feet and ankle muscles are stronger, and my calves are bigger and more toned," explained one Xero Shoes reviewer.

Read more: Best Moisture Wicking Workout Shirts

FiveFingers, V-Trail 2.0

The Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail 2.0 is iconic among barefoot runners, and for good reason. With individual sleeves for each toe, these shoes provide maximum flexibility and agility. A 3D-printed mesh upper offers light protection against rocks, while the water-repellent material keeps your feet dry in wet conditions.

The quick-cinch closure system with bungee laces and an adjustable toggle offers a cozy and locked-down fit without the hassle of traditional laces. This shoe also features Vibram's 3D Cocoon technology in the outsole, providing rock-stopping protection and reliable grip on both wet and dry surfaces.

What do buyers say? "I have been a long time user of Vibram shoes. They are true runner shoes and activity shoe giving the user the most optimal minimalist feel while in use," said one Vibram FiveFingers, V-Trail 2.0 reviewer on Amazon.

Read more: Best Travel Shoes

Primus Lite III

This iconic model from Vivobarefoot is simulates the experience of being barefoot while protecting your feet from the risk involved with going shoe-free. It's designed to be foot shaped—not shoe shaped—with a super wide toe box that allows your feet to move how they would without the constraints of a traditional shoe. The benefit being you can grip the ground more effectively and exercise your foot's dexterity while working out.

It's urban-environment approved, with a 4mm sole to protect your foot from whatever may be in your path and extra lamination around the toe for an added buffer from the environment. We love that the upper is constructed of eco mesh, made from recycled plastic bottles. It's also 70% plant-based and uses an algae foam.

What do buyers say? People who wear these say they hold up to more abuse than shoes twice their weight, and can stay in great condition no matter what you put them through.

Read more: Best Weightlifting Shoes

Solstice XT 2

With a firm midsole and support for more than just inward rolling of the foot, this shoe was designed with squats, jumps, and HIIT workouts in mind. While it's another model that's built for cross-training, it's also plenty capable on the roads, making it a great choice for speed workouts and shorter runs

The Solstice XT 2 offers both flexibility and snap, along with the stability needed for strength training exercises. The signature FootShape™ comfort is what makes this shoe a standout for wide fits, as it gives your feet more space to sit naturally.

What do buyers say? "I use the Solstice as my casual everyday shoe. Great roomy toe box and a zero drop sole. I have worn more minimal zero drop shoes but I do like the small amount of stack height these shoes offer to give my feet a break," said one reviewer on altrarunning.com.

Read more: Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet

ST-4 Road-Running Shoes

These shoes are ideal for running, agility training, weight lifting, and more, thanks to their stripped-back design that maximizes versatility. Unlike the previous version, these shoes come with an Ortholite footbed, which provides a soft step-in feel without adding excessive cushioning. Weighing in at just 7.3 ounces for a men's size 9, the ST-4 Speed Trainer features a 16mm midsole that provides ample support and protection while maintaining a minimalist feel.

The internal support skeleton and light overlays in the upper offer added structure, ensuring a superior durability that can stand up to the wear and tear of the miles you put in on the road. (We don't recommend it for trails.)

What do buyers say? "The design seems to have some kind of arch-support, which i don't want (my feet are healthy and don't need that). Overall, I'm happy with the shoe because it performs well. I worry though, that they might weaken my arches by constantly supporting them," said one ST-4 reviewer on the brand's site.

Read more: Best Walking Shoes

Primus Trail Knit FG

Yet another great minimalist model from Vivobarefoot, but this one's meant to be taken off-road. The Primus Trail Knit FG shoes are made to marry the beauty of a barefoot-style shoe with the durability of a trail shoe.

The Firm Ground sole is designed for rough, rocky terrains, providing protection while still allowing for a connected feel to the ground. A knitted upper offers flexibility and breathability, allowing for natural movement and exploration you want out of a minimal shoe. The wide design provides natural stability, while the thin and flexible construction enables you to feel more and move naturally.

These shoes are made from recycled materials, too. When you're done with them, send them to revivo.com for remaking and reusing. Which means they're just as sustainable as they are functional.

Read more: Best Compression Shorts

Vapor Glove 6

We love this pick from Merrell for trail or beach running, especially. The shoe features a sock-like upper that provides a snug fit while keeping sand, dirt, and debris out, and the midfoot has been revised to increase flexibility. The outsole is made of Vibram rubber, which is flexible and grippy, providing just enough protection to steer clear of the small stuff that may be in your path. Emphasis on the small stuff, because at only 2mm thick, it won't shield against sharp rocks.

What do buyers say? "Best barefoot shoes available... Have been using them for years and this is my favourite design so far," said one reviewer on Merrell's site.

Read more: Best Running Shorts

What to Look for When Shopping for Minimalist Running Shoes

Whether you're new to the minimalist running shoe game or have been logging some serious miles in zero-drop kicks for years, there are some key factors that make selecting a good pair slightly more technical than shopping for traditional running shoes.

Support and cushioning: Minimalist shoes don't typically offer as much (or any) arch support or cushioning as traditional runners. While it will feel different at first, make sure you're comfortable with the level of support provided by the shoes you choose. If you're used to running in ultra-cushioned shoes, choose a pair that you can slip a supportive insole into at first to get you acclimated.

Sole thickness: This category of shoes typically have a very thin sole, usually between 4 mm and 15 mm thick. (Though we included some on this list with more than that.)

A minimal sole allows for maximum ground feel and flexibility. If you're new to minimalist running shoes, start with a slightly thicker sole and work your way down to a thinner one as your feet adapt.

Flexibility: Flexibility is essential to a true minimalist shoe as it allows your feet to move naturally. Minimalist shoes should not restrict your foot's range of motion or inhibit your natural gait in any way.

Fit: "The shoes should fit comfortably but still have at least a thumbnail from the longest toe to the front shoe. They will be a little bit more narrow and a little tighter fitting on your foot," explains Dr. Mendeszoon. "The heel counter should not be rubbing against your Achilles tendon."

As with any running shoe, make sure the shoes you choose feel good. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box that allows your toes to spread out naturally. This can help improve balance and stability while running by allowing your toes to grip the ground.

Terrain: Where will you be running most often? If you'll be running on pavement, opt for a shoe with a lower stack. If you'll be running on trails, you'll want a shoe with good traction and more under-foot protection.

Materials: Look for shoes made with lightweight, breathable materials like mesh or knit. Avoid shoes with heavy or stiff materials, which can weigh you down and impede your natural foot movement as well.

"Buyer beware, the shoes will not last as long as a stability or motion control shoes due to the minimalist material and arch support," says Dr. Mendeszoon.

Weight: Minimalist runners tend to be slightly lighter than their traditional counterparts. Look for a shoe that strikes a balance between minimalism and stability and is under 10 oz.

Adapt Runner

For those interested in testing the minimalist running shoe waters who aren't yet ready to commit to a zero-drop model, there are options. A great one being the Adapt Runner from Flex Footwear. It's both lightweight and versatile enough to carry you from strength training to light running workouts, and everything in between.

A zero-drop sole and a thin, flexible outsole, allow you to connect with the ground and feel the terrain beneath your feet. The shoes also feature a removable insole, so you can customize the level of cushioning to suit your preferences.

What do buyers say? "These are by far the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned. These save my feet after working all day AND I’ve worn them for a half marathon without any blisters or pain in my feet or ankles. I originally purchased these to run in but now I’m on my second pair just bc they look good as an everyday sneaker. Definitely size down by a half size since they do run large," said one certified buyer on the brand's site.

Read more: Best Folding Treadmills

Born to Run

These shoes from Xero are designed to give you the freedom and flexibility of running barefoot while still providing protection and support, and boy do they deliver. With a wider toebox that is designed to fit the shape of your foot (not the other way around), an ultra-flexible upper, and a uniquely secure closure system, it might just be the most comfortable minimalist shoes out there.

The sole is very thin, allowing you to feel the ground and make adjustments to your stride accordingly, and with enough protection to keep moving forward. This shoe is incredibly lightweight and breathable, making them suitable for hot weather or long runs, too.

Read more: Best Treadmills

What Are the Benefits of Minimalist Running Shoes?

The benefits of wearing a minimalist shoe is that it can strengthen the arch and the small intrinsic muscles in the foot, allow the foot to work more naturally, according to Dr. Mendeszoon.

"The thought behind the shoes was that people from eastern Africa who did not wear shoes did not have the traditional Western society's problems such as bunions, hammertoes, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and other overuse conditions," says Mendeszoon. "Over a decade of wearing the typical shoes that we're accustomed to, and have a higher heel height, ultimately changes the gait mechanics and biomechanics which can cause overuse problems."

Who Are Minimalist Running Shoes Best for?

Due to their minimal support, minimalist shoes are best for people who do not have any type of arthritis of the foot or ankle, significant tendon problems, or extremely flat feet.

"People with a typically more neutral foot tape and a little bit more of an arch will do better in these shoes long-term," says Mendeszoon. "The shoes are great as an augmentation, or in addition to, wearing standard shoes. [That way,] your feet will continue to balance the intrinsic muscles, soft tissues, and joints opposed to wearing stability or motion control shoes all the time."

But keep in mind: regardless of your foot anatomy, going to a minimalist or zero-drop shoe will require a break-in period of several weeks to two months before consistently running in them.

'Drop' Explained

Heel to toe drop, or 'drop,' is a recent term that has gained momentum over the last decade. This term represents the measurement of cushioning from the heel to the forefoot. "'Zero drop' means the height of the shoe at the heel is the same as the height in the forefoot," says Mendeszoon.

Since the early 1970’s the construction of the running shoe changed dramatically as shoes were constructed with blown rubber and thick heels with an average heel elevation of 8-12 mm.

A higher heel-to-toe drop can "mechanically change the flexibility and pliability of the Achilles tendon," says Mendeszoon "Which in return can cause for biomechanical flaws causing for overuse injuries."

Within the last decade more and more shoes have employed a zero drop (0 mm) design, minimal running shoes included. Typically, the greater the heel drop, the greater the heel strike . The lower the drop, the more midfoot-strike is promoted.

You'll find a low (or zero) drop in neutral running shoes, many racing shoes, and minimalist shoes. While stability and motion control shoes will have the larger drop (8-12 mm).

Minimalist vs. Maximalist Running Shoes

You know by now what we mean when we refer to minimalist running shoes, so let's compare the differences and benefits to maximalist models.

Maximalist shoes offers a significant amount of cushioning in the midsole and higher sidewalls, giving runners a softer and more comfortable ride. They're designed to reduce the impact of running and help runners feel less fatigued during long-distance runs. Think ultra-cushioned, high-stack HOKA running shoes, which incorporate rocker technology to encourage a more efficient and natural gait.

These two running shoe categories represent two very different approaches to running footwear. Minimalist shoes prioritize a natural foot movement and ground feel, with thin soles, flexible materials, and little to no cushioning. They encourage a midfoot or forefoot strike, which can help strengthen the foot and improve running form. Maximalist shoes, on the other hand, prioritize comfort and cushioning, with thick midsoles and higher sidewalls that provide a soft and plush ride. They can be especially beneficial for runners who experience joint pain or fatigue during long-distance runs, and also beginners.

Read more: Best Running Workouts

Why You Can Trust Us

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. For this story, we spent hours researching products online and interviewing podiatrist Dr. Mark Mendeszoon to understand what factors set the top minimalist running shoes apart from the rest. Our writers and editors are experts in their own right as well, and use their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality.

The above product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products that genuinely impress us. We never let retailers or publicists dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

How We Selected

We consulted with Men's Health's Fitness editors and experts on the top minimalist running shoes for men. Experts including our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. and fitness editor Brett Williams, NASM, put countless minimalist running shoes through the wringer to evaluate their stability, fit, and function. We also considered price point and certified buyer reviews from e-commerce sites we trust, too.

You Might Also Like

• The Best Hair Growth Shampoos for Men to Buy Now

• 25 Vegetables That Are Surprising Sources of Protein