Best Minimal and Low-Drop Running Shoes

11 Best Minimal and Low-Drop Running Shoes

Hoka One One is known for its cushioned, maximalist designs, but it also has plenty to offer low-drop enthusiasts. The Challenger 4 ATR doesn't offer as much support as its predecessor. Instead, it treats runners to a more lightweight structure, accompanied with EVA foam in the midsole and a double mesh upper. The design is also great at repelling water, and it includes a roomy toe box that allows for a natural splay. The Challenger 4 ATR has a 5mm heel-toe drop. 

Brooks has managed to pack plenty of features into this low-drop road runner. The Woven Air upper keeps the shoe light yet snug, and the Omega Flex Grooves allow your foot to maintain its flexibility. The PureCadence 7's Dual Toe Flex splits your big toe from the rest of your foot. The result is an increase in balance and an easier push-off at the start of each run. These features, combined with a drop of 4mm, allow you to enjoy an overall natural gait. Take note though: If you're looking for a huge variety of color options, this shoe might not be for you.

Altra's shoes incorporate what the brand likes to call a Zero Drop platform. If the name isn’t a dead giveaway, the term means that your heel and forefoot will rest on an entirely level surface. It's a design that appeals to runners who want to do away with the heel-toe ramp altogether. The Instinct 4.5 has a few features to ensure a comfortable run as well. The bottom of the shoe is completely outfitted in rubber, so there's plenty of protection for your soles. Altra has also added grooves to the side of the midsole, with the intent of enhancing the platform's flexibility. The mesh upper is soft, the tongue is padded, and the toe box is roomy. It's safe to say Altra designed these for both speed and comfort.

Get used to seeing Altra shoes on this list. The brand's Zero Drop allows it to create some of the best men's minimal running shoes, and even some models specifically for women. The Superior 3.5, of course, has that famous level platform, but this shoe also aspires to be heavy-duty footwear. The outsole's DuraTread enhances your traction wherever you go; the shoe's lugs keep you stable even if you decide to hit the trails. Keeping with the rugged theme, the upper is durable and quick to dry. These features don't detract from the shoe's breathability or lightweight design.

Hoka One One has another low-drop option, and, just in case the Challenger 4 ATR wasn't low enough for you, this one features a 4mm heel drop. The Tracer 2 is slightly heavier than the original Tracer, but with the men's version weighing in at 7.7 ounces, it's still an incredibly light shoe. Expect a firm forefoot complemented by a springy heel. The design is intended to give you an impressive push off the starting line without sacrificing comfort down the road. A thick collar furthers enhances an already comfy design, and rubber on the outsole guards against wear and tear, making these some of the best minimal shoes for running.

You didn't forget about Altra, did you? The Escalante 1.5 has a sleek look, but beneath that cool design is a familiar feature. Yes, the Zero Drop platform is here, and this time it's accompanied by Altra Ego cushioning. This plush material offers impressive rebound, so each step you take feels energized. If you flip the shoe over, you'll find a footprint design with lots of grooves to increase your traction. Between the quick-drying upper and those grooves, you can feel secure running on wet terrain in some of the best minimal running shoes for women and men.

Altra's neutral running shoe features a broad heel for stability, as well as Vibram MegaGrip on the outsole for enhanced traction. Clearly, these aspire to be the best minimal trail running shoes, so you shouldn't be surprised to find durable, quick-drying mesh on the upper. The Olympus 3.0 also has a four-point gaiter trap, so you can easily put a gaiter on to prevent pebbles, dirt, and other debris from ruining your run. Wondering if Altra's famous Zero Drop platform makes a return in this shoe model? Of course it does. 

In case you were wondering, Altra isn't the only brand that knows how to create the best zero drop running shoes. Merrell's Trail Glove 4 keeps your foot completely level, and a mesh lining promotes breathability. An anti-microbial agent is also present. It works in combination with the breathable mesh to create a healthy, sanitary environment for your feet as you work up a sweat during hard runs. You won't find much ankle support on this shoe, but it's very light, durable, and flexible. Runners with wide feet will be happy with this shoe; the toe box is very roomy. These features, along with high responsiveness, put the Trail Glove 4 on the list of best zero drop running shoes.

Although it's not a zero-drop shoe, Topo's Fli-Lyte 2 manages to earn recognition as one of the best cushioned minimal running shoes. Its upper is more durable than its predecessor's upper, but it remains flexible and responsive. The shoe has a roomy toe box, so your toes can work their magic uninterrupted. Funky color options are a big highlight here. Expect to grab plenty of attention no matter which design you decide on. The Fli-Lyte 2 has a 3mm drop.

Remember the Altra Instinct 4.5? The Altra Intution 4.5 is its sister shoe. A comfortable toe box and EVA foam in the midsole ensure the Intuition 4.5 is just as comfortable as its brother. The shoe also has a secondary cushion that's composed of bouncy, recycled material. Altra refers to this as the A-Bound. As you should expect, the Intuition 4.5 is several ounces lighter than the Instinct 4.5. These minimal shoes have a Zero Drop platform. 

On a list that's mostly dominated by Altra's Zero Drop offerings, Merrell's Vapor Glove 3 still emerges as the best minimal running shoes. How can that be? Well, the Vapor Glove 3 goes all in when it comes to a minimal design. The men's version is 6.1 ounces, and the women's version is an eye-popping 4.6 ounces. They're barely there! Despite the super light structure, the shoe has good traction and padding on the bottom to protect your feet during runs. Thermoplastic urethane strengthens the mesh upper, and the shoe has no drop in its platform. This is a shoe for runners who are already certain they love minimal running shoes.

Asics Gel-Kayano 25 m

13 Best Men's Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for 2019

Asics uses its FluidRide cushioning to provide a durable but comfortable platform in the Gel-Nimbus 22. The sponge material allows for comfortable propulsion each time your foot hits the ground. The material is also lightweight, which is a nice bonus. The heel height of 23mm might help ease foot pain, but it might not appeal to runners looking for something closer to a zero drop. The shoe is available in plenty of cool colors, and you won't have trouble finding a design that suits your tastes. The toe box is narrow, so if you have a preference for a wider toe section, you might want to consider the next option on this list of best men's tennis shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Altra has incorporated a wide toe box in its Escalante 2.5. This gives your foot plenty of space to relax without feeling too snug, and it also increases your overall stability during runs. You'll want to try on a pair first to ensure the fit isn't too loose for you, but the engineered-knit upper should hug your foot like a sock. Despite the zero drop platform, the brand's Altra Ego cushioning offers plenty of protection for achy feet, making these good shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Altra has another offering for runners suffering from plantar fasciitis. At 9.8 ounces, the Instinct 4.5 is heavier than the 7.9-ounce Escalante 1.5, but it shares a similar wide toe box and zero drop platform. Ethylene-vinyl acetate in the midsole helps you cope with rough impacts, and grooves on the side grant the foot a comfortable amount of flexibility. A contoured insole gives your underfoot the right amount of support where it matters. 

Hoka One One loves adding in generous amounts of cushioning to its shoes. This trait is in full display with the brand's Clifton 5. The soft and supportive EVA cushioning in the midsole protects your sore feet from unpleasant impacts. Combine that with the shoe's cushioned tongue and collar, and there's no threat of a loose fit. In terms of aesthetics, many of the color options are bright enough to make you visible on the road, but a simple black and white design is also available if you want a more subtle look.

When it comes to weight, the Altra Torin 4.5 takes the middle ground between the brand's Escalante 2.5 and Instinct 4.5. The shoe is 8.4 ounces, which is still light enough to please most competitive runners. It also has a contoured foot bed, so you won't spend too much time wincing about your underfoot pain. A-Bound cushioning, made from recycled material, will ensure soft landings. Like the other Altra models, the Torin 3.0 has a 0mm heel-to-toe drop.  

Another well-cushioned option from Hoka One One, the Bondi 7 is there for you as you recover and get back to running at 100 percent. This shoe has all the cushioning you expect from the brand, as well as a rocker shape to help guide your foot movement. The shoe also has a heel counter to help secure your foot in place. At 10.9 ounces, the Bondi is heavier than the 9.4-ounce Clifton 5, but the next shoe from Hoka One One might hold more appeal if you want as little weight as possible. 

The roughly 8-ounce Clayton 2 is the brand's lightest shoe on this list. However, you don't need to fret about cushioning; this shoe still has plenty of that. A dual density midsole protects your heel during landings, but it doesn't hinder your propulsion. The rocker shape returns to encourage an easy, natural gait. The color options for this shoe are pretty wild, so much so that you might have trouble finding a toned down version.

So, you've taken the time to consider Hoka One One's 8-ounce shoe, but perhaps you'd like to go even lighter than that? Newton has a solution when you want lightweight men's athletic shoes for plantar fasciitis. Its Distance 9 shoe is an incredible 7.6 ounces. That's not easy for a men's running shoe to pull off. A full-length cushion in the midsole is great for a sore underfoot. The brand also includes features such as the Biomechanical Metatarsal Sensor, for added stability, as well as super high abrasion rubber, for enhanced durability.

The Saucony Ride ISO has a sleek design, but with that comes a fairly narrow toe box. If the toe box size doesn't turn you away, the shoe has loads to offer. Everun cushioning is both light and responsive, and the SRC Landing Zone can reduce impacts that would otherwise cause sharp pain in your underfoot. The shoe is 9.5 ounces with a heel-to-toe drop of 8mm.

Another option from Asics, the Gel-Cumulus 22 is slightly lighter than the Nimbus, weighing 10.1 ounces. The shoe relies on the Asics High Abrasion Rubber and DuraSponge on the outsole to ensure durability and traction. However, the midsole is where you'll find the features that cater to your plantar fasciitis. Gel cushioning in the front and rear of the shoe will absorb shocks and keep you in motion without having to stop and massage those sore soles. 

The Brooks Dyad 10 has limited color options, but once you get past that fact, you'll find a solid shoe for runners with plantar fasciitis. The brand's DNA cushioning adapts to your foot shape for customized comfort. A segmented crash pad in the heel will absorb shocks from landings, and the shoe's arch pods enhance underfoot stability. The shoe is roomy and weighs around 11.6 ounces. Overall, if you prioritize stability and comfort and don't mind additional weight, the Dyad 10 is a satisfying option.  

So far, the Asics' models listed are all more than 10 ounces. The Gel-Kayano follows that trend, with a weight of 11.9 ounces. Sure, it's heavier than the brand's aforementioned models, but it has plenty of features that cater to runners who are trying to recover from foot pain. For example, the Trusstic System is a midsole structure that enhances your stability. And the shoe's Dynamic DuoMax helps control overpronation. The brand's FluidRide foam is the main source of the midsole's cushioning; however, gel pads are also present to help you manage hard landings.

Not quite as light as the Clayton 2, Hoka One One's Arahi 4 gives runners a plush and stable ride. The rocker shape is still there to smooth out your gait. And the full-length EVA cushioning in the midsole offers you the level of comfort you'd expect from the brand. The Ortholite Sockliner adds in another layer of cushioning, along with odor-reducing properties. Plenty of color options allow you to find a look that works for you as you sport the best men's shoes for plantar fasciitis.

13 Best Men's Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for 2020

11 Best Women’s Running Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for 2018

Runner love the durability of the Clifton, aided by the high-abrasion lightweight rubber placed strategically around the outsole to reduce wear and tear. The EVA midsole foam functions to dually cushion and stabilize the foot, and a molded ortholite sockliner adds additional comfort. A padded tongue and collar and a cloth-like upper material round out this comfortable and structured shoe. Give these a try!

Though marketed as a competition or race shoe, reviewers who tested the Escalante identified it as among the best women's walking shoes for plantar fasciitis as well. These lightweight shoes offer cushion through their patented Altra Ego cushioning, designed to be bouncy and responsive. As a zero-drop shoe, your heel and toes will be on the same level field, allowing you to stay grounded through your run. Lastly, these have a relatively low-profile color scheme, so they’re versatile to wear for a workout or a day around town.

The Hurricane offer excellent fit and support, with a medial post in the midsole to absorb shock from your foot strike and provide correction for the runner who over-pronates somewhat. The upper in the shoe really gives it its unique feel, with a moisture wicking lining material in the collar and the HRC+ Strobel Board that adds 1.5mm of extra EVA plush comfort. These are excellent running shoes for plantar fasciitis!

The Bondi are another shoe that were lauded for their ability to carry wearers through everything from a long training run to a long shift at work. Hoka shoes provide maximal comfort and cushion, and the Bondi do so through a thick and uniquely soft EVA midsole layer. In terms of women’s shoes for plantar fasciitis, these rank highly because many testers indicated that these shoes lessened or didn’t further aggravate pain in joints, feet, or muscles.

Think of the Triumph like the Mercedes Benz of shoes: built for performance, speed, and sleek comfort. The makers embedded EVERUN cushion in both the top sole and midsole to keep your foot cushioned on all sides. The crystalized rubber in the neon outsole enable superior grip, and the segmented lacing system reduces pressure from atop the foot to keep you comfortable from toe-off to landing. These shoes truly are a triumph!

When you’re tackling trails, you need excellent traction; that’s exactly what the Challenger offer with gripping pods on the outsole, and versatility to take these on everything from rocky trails to sandy beaches to paved roads.  EVA foam in the midsole is designed to absorb impact over time, which for women’s plantar fasciitis is essential to ensure that your feet and tendons don’t fall into bad habits during a run. Lastly, the dual-layer mesh in the upper is designed to keep any elements that you may encounter on a trail away from your precious feet. We challenge you to get out there!

Runners reported that the Instinct were great for people with problem toes or feet because their signature FootShape toe box allows for natural and comfortable toe splay and wriggling. The 0mm heel-to-toe drop is Altra’s signature structure, so they’re perfect for runners looking for a minimalist ride. The multi-layered cushioning system underfoot will keep your feet feeling fresh as you log miles in your training plan. Follow your instinct right onto that river path for a run!

Newton designs shoes that are sleek and lightweight, and the Fate exactly fit that bill, with the exception of its exciting multi-colored façade. The low 5mm heel-to-toe drop, combined with a springy midsole foam, enable a smooth, running-on-air type of feel. The open-weave mesh with no-sew overlays in the upper round ensure that you don’t feel any friction between your shoe and sock, which are just another way these shoes will ensure your comfort and running success. We think it’s fate that you found these shoes!

The New Balance 1260 provide a great balance of comfort and structure, helping over-pronators correct their stride and giving extra padding around the Achilles to lock your foot securely into place. The insole is removable if you’d prefer to slip in your own, and the durable midsole foam will keep your feet feeling fresh well into your longest run. The mesh in the upper is breathable and fitted, so that you barely even notice the shoe on your foot!

If you’re addicted to support in your running shoes, give these a whirl. The Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar® tri-density foam runs the entire length of the shoe underfoot, and dually helps control overpronation that may contribute to foot pain and ensure a smooth transition from foot strike to toe-off. The moisture wicking interior lining of the upper does an excellent job wicking away sweat to keep the foot dry on even the sweatiest of trail runs.

Say hello to the best women’s shoes for plantar fasciitis! Another highly reviewed Altra shoe is notable for its 0mm heel-to-toe drop, giving it a grounded feel, and its versatility for running on trails and pavement. The TrailClaw outsole strikes a balance between flexibility and stickiness to ensure that you can tackle even the toughest terrain. The midsole is designed to follow the anatomical shape of your foot, which is great for a runner coming back from an injury or pain. These really are a superior option for your running needs!

Best Men's Altra Running Shoes 

10 Best Men's Altra Running Shoes for 2019

Like all of the options on this list, Altra's Provision 3.5 features the brand's FootShape toe box and Zero Drop platform. So let's skip to what really makes it stand out. For starters, it's a stability shoe, and it offers plenty of supportive features. For example, the GuideRail is a stabilizing wall that helps tired feet remain steady. Meanwhile, three Stabilipod pillars help reduce overpronation. The Varus wedge also addresses overpronation issues, but it does so by providing a slope that elevates the medial side. These are certainly some of the best men's Altra running shoes for flat feet. But despite all of its features, the shoe only weighs a modest 10 ounces. It has a high degree of flexibility too, thanks to the midsole's gridded grooves. The men's version is available in cool and neutral colors like gray, blue, and black. 

Much like with the Provision 3.5, Paradigm 4.0 has the brand's GuideRail system, which comes in handy when you start to tire toward the end of your run. The Stabilipod pillars are also here to stabilize your foot in three different areas. The Varus feature is absent, but the shoe's midsole has the brand's EGO cushioning, which manages to be light, responsive, and plush. Overall, this might be the ideal shoe for runners who need a supportive structure, but not as much as the Provision 3.5 provides. If you're a fan of blue or black designs, you'll be satisfied with your color options. It weighs 11.2 ounces, making it the heaviest shoe on the list.

If the name isn't clear enough, yes, the Lone Peak 4 is a trail running shoe. When you're exploring rugged terrain, footwear that increases traction is a necessity. With that in mind, Altra outfitted these shoes with multi-directional 4mm lugs known as TrailClaw. The lugs are made of MaxTrac rubber, which ensures durability and grip. Worried about finding wet areas during your trail adventures? The shoe is designed with mesh areas that drain water and dry quickly. This 10.2-ounce shoe is available in various colors, including blue, green, yellow, and black – so you can opt for a subtle or eye-popping aesthetic while you're out in the wilderness.

In the category of trail running shoes, the Timp 1.5 gives the Lone Peak 4 a little company. The TrailClaw lugs are back, but they take on a different shape than in the Lone Peak 4. The outsole is also made of a different material. Rather than the MaxTrac rubber, you'll find the DuraTread compound, which is ideal for long trail runs. The four-point GaiterTrap gives you the option to increase your defenses against dirt and sand. At 10.5 ounces, it's slightly heavier than the previously mentioned trail shoe. Color options include an icy black and blue and a fiery red and black.

According to Altra, the Torin series is its best-selling road shoe line, and the Torin Knit 3.5 only improves on the footwear. It's a versatile shoe that you can wear no matter how long or short your runs. The midsole features the brand's A-Bound cushioning, which is comfortable yet durable enough to stand the test of time. The upper is where the Torin 3.5 really stands apart from its predecessors. It features a seamless knit design with a sock-like feel. The shoe is comfortable and well cushioned. But take note: This 9.1-ounce shoe doesn't offer nearly the same level of support as models like the Provision 3.5 or Paradigm 4.0.

Like the Torin Knit 3.5, the Escalante 1.5 features a knit upper that caters to breathability and overall comfort. It has 360-degree reflectivity, so it's a wise choice for early morning or late night runs. Rather than the Torin's A-Bound cushioning, this shoe uses the brand's EGO compound in the midsole. FootPod technology accommodates your foot's unique shape, leading to more natural-feeling movements. If you place a high priority on aesthetics, the Escalante 1.5 will thrill you with plenty of color options.

The Olympus 3.0 is another trail shoe in Altra's lineup. But this one stands out due to its high level of cushioning. Even when you're running on rocks and fallen tree branches, you won't have to worry about much discomfort. A cushioned heel cup prevents any wobbling, and the Vibram MegaGrip rubber provides plenty of grip. The upper's mesh is made of abrasion resistant mesh, so it's durable and breathable, but not necessarily a good defense from wet conditions. The shoe weighs about 10.7 ounces. 

The Altra Instinct 4.5 is designed for versatility – after all, in order for you to trust your instincts, you need to be able to handle whatever challenges come your way. It's a 9.8-ounce shoe that uses A-Bound cushioning and InnerFlex grooves to keep you comfortable yet flexible and responsive. The upper is made of engineered mesh, so it offers great breathability, but it won't offer much protection on wet days. 

Many runners have found that the Altra Duo is a bit deceptive. It has the look of a heavy shoe, but it weighs a mere 7.9 ounces. The outsole features blown rubber for great durability, and the midsole offers Max-LT cushioning to keep you comfortable on race day. The padded tongue only adds to the secure fit and cozy interior. The rest of the upper has thin and breathable mesh, so your feet won't feel overheated as you push yourself to new limits. 

Yet another one of brand's lightweight offerings, the Superior 4 weighs 7.9 ounces. The TrailClaw lugs on the outsole are great for trail runs, and they'll keep you stable even on typically slick surfaces. The GaiterTrap and StoneGuard allow for optional protection from rocks and whatever else you might encounter out on the trail. The midsole uses the brand's Quantic foam, which is even lighter than its Ego cushioning. This sleek shoe is available in color combinations such as gray and lime, gray and red, gray and blue, and a simple black option for minimalists. The Superior 4 lets you experience what it's like to tackle a trail in bare feet, without actually exposing your soles to the elements. That's why many trailblazers consider these the best Altra men's running shoes. 

Men's Altra Instinct

No Matches!