13 Best Stability Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for 2020

13 Best Stability Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for 2019

Thanks to a stability post on the medial side of the shoe, New Balance's 860v10 offers extra stability for runners who overpronate during workouts. A thermoplastic structure in the midsole of the shoe supports the wearer's muscles and tendons, which is also a major benefit for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis. The flexible forefoot and external heel counter allow for a comfortable run and gait that feels natural. New Balance uses a full-length cushioning system to protect your feet from impact. 

While this shoe's upper hugs your foot, its Torsion System gives your arch plenty of support. Of course, there are other interesting features at work as well. Around 3,000 thermoplastic polyurethane capsules in the midsole give you a pleasant spring in your step as you hit the pavement. Adidas fanatics will notice that, due to some of its stabilizing features, the Ultraboost ST has a little more weigh to it than some of the brand's other options.

This shoe from Asics uses a crash pad in the heel section to absorb shock and help runners maintain stability. High abrasion rubber in the outsole reduces wear, and this durable material will keep you running for quite some time. Asics' DuraSponge technology, which is softer than the aforementioned rubber, can keep the bottom of your foot comfortable as you recover from plantar fasciitis. Extra stability is offered by the Trusstic System, a rigid structure in the midsole, and the Dynamic DuoMax, a wedge in the same area of the shoe. 

This is one of Brooks' most popular offerings, and for good reason. The shoe has a sleek design, but underneath the great aesthetics is a support system designed to improve your body alignment during runs. This support comes in the form of the shoe's Progressive Diagonal Roll Bar in the midsole. The 12mm heel to toe drop might not appeal to all runners, but the plush arch support and adaptable midsole foam is useful for anyone who needs help managing plantar fasciitis.

Mizuno Wave Inspire 16 aims to comfort your aching feet with its U4ic, cushioning foam technology that's included in the midsole. It's lightweight, so it won't slow you down during runs. When it comes to stability, you can rely on the Mizuno's Double Fan-Shape Wave unit. This midsole feature helps to reduce pronation, and it does so without sacrificing responsiveness. Even the stitched overlays on the shoe's upper are there to offer support and enhance your performance.   

This shoe from Brooks features a cradle shape that can relieve your heel discomfort. This shape can also improve your overall stability during runs. The Transcend 7 has Guide Rails, which, as the name implies, guide your steps to help you avoid overpronation. The shoe's upper not only keeps your feet free of moisture, but it also prevents them from shifting even during the hardest sprints. These features are all complemented by plush and flexible cushioning in the outsole and midsole. 

These are stability shoes for plantar fasciitis in a lightweight package. The men's version of this shoe only weighs 9.5 ounces, and the women's version weighs 8.1 ounces. Brooks uses a gel compound for the midsole cushioning. It responds well to varying levels of pressure, adapting to the appropriate stiffness for underfoot comfort. The shoe's Diagonal Roll Bar helps the wearer manage overpronation and achieve a natural gait. Straying from the crash pad used in the Ravenna 8, the Ravenna 9 instead has dense foam in the medial heel. 

Brooks continues to hog the spotlight on this list of best stability running shoes for plantar fasciitis. The PureFlow 7 is a low-drop shoe with a drop of 4mm, but it doesn't skimp on the cushioning. The brand's DNA cushioning offers customized comfort, and the Guide Rails system promotes healthy alignment as your move. While the shoe is there to support you, its Omega Flex Grooves still allows for a nice degree of foot flexibility. 

The next spot on the list belong to Nike, a long time giant in the shoe industry. The Air Zoom Structure 23 sports a lengthy name, but a sleek shape. Blown rubber on the front of the outsole helps you comfortably begin your runs with a burst of power. And in the upper region, lightweight mesh adapts to the shape of your foot while offering ventilation. Much of technology that caters to your plantar fasciitis is found in the midsole. A foam wedge, crash pad, and pressurized air structure make these some of best shoes for pronation and plantar fasciitis.

Hoka One One is on a mission to keep your feet comfortable with plush designs. The Arahi 4 is especially useful for those with pronation and plantar fasciitis problems, thanks in part to Meta-Rocker design. This feature gently guides you into a smooth, cushioned gait. Everything from the midsole to the collar and tongue is padded to reduce foot pain and wobbling.  

Another pair of Brooks' motion control kicks top this list of stability shoes for plantar fasciitis pronation. While the Ariel 20 is intended for women runners, the Beast 20 is for the guys. Each has slight tweaks to accommodate the runner's sex, but both are ready to ease the burden of plantar fasciitis. The 3D-printed midfoot saddle is there to keep your foot in place, while the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar keeps you from overpronating. Brooks uses its Super DNA foam to guarantee a cushy ride. It absorbs shocks that might otherwise leave you wincing in pain. The Caterpillar Crash Pad is another feature that prevents hard impacts from ruining your run. 

11 Best Stability Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis for 2021

Best Brooks Men's Running Shoes 

13 Best Brooks Men's Running Shoes for 2019

A caldera is a volcanic crater, a reminder of the explosive power of Mother Nature. So why in the world would you want to stick your foot in one? Well, for starters, the Brooks Caldera 3 has a unique aesthetic that's hard to resist, especially if you enjoy a cool palette of blue, gray, and navy.
When it comes to functionality, this is a trail running shoe that can accompany you on fast but rugged treks. Lightweight BioMoGo DNA in the midsole allows for responsive movement while also protecting your soles. Lugs on the bottom of the shoe provide excellent traction, and water repelling features keep your feet comfortable and dry. These shoes have a midsole drop of 4mm and a weight of 9.3 ounces.


The Ravenna 10 has an overall tamer look than the Caldera 3, but it comes in three different color combinations, so runners have a little more variety in terms of aesthetics. The shoe serves a much different purpose from the Caldera 3 as well. It's a road running shoe that doesn't really have the structural elements needed to go off road. But this model really shines in its supportive features.
Brooks' GuideRails holistic support system is the main attraction here, positioning your feet in a way that also takes stress off your knees as you run. Despite its focus on stability, the shoe only weighs 9.4 ounces. It has a midsole drop of 10mm.


Whether you choose the low-key grey and black palette or the attention-grabbing green and blue version, Brooks PureFlow 7 is reliable footwear. Like the Ravenna 10, it's intended for road running, so stick with smooth terrain when you wear these. But unlike the Ravenna 10, it's not focused on support. This is evident in the shoe's lightweight and flexible design. This 8.9-ounce shoe comes equipped with midsole cushioning that adapts to your movements, as well as a rounded heel that allows for healthy body alignment while you're on the go.

If you're the type of runner who appreciates a variety of color options, the Brooks Launch 6 might immediately appeal to you. Deep blue and vivid red are great for expressing yourself. The more subdued palette options are good for a blending in with multiple outfits. As the name implies, the Launch 6 is aimed at putting a little spring in your step. The midsole cushioning gives the wearer a nice bounce. These shoes weigh 9 ounces, a little more than the PureFlow 7. They have a midsole drop of 10mm.

Most people hear the word "beast" and think of an antagonist. As it turns out, the Brooks' Beast '18 just wants to play a supportive role in your life. Super soft cushioning in the midsole and stabilizing features prove that the Beast is just here to help you out. But if you expect a beast to be heavy, you'd be making an accurate assumption. All of those supporting features result in a weight 13.3 ounces and a midsole drop of 12mm. It's a road running shoe for men who crave more stability on their outings. 

No, these shoes aren't invisible. In fact, some of the available color options, such as the "pop art" and "nightlife" versions, are nearly impossible to overlook. They're not particularly spooky either, so there's nothing to fear. 
This 10.9-ounce road-running shoe is a Runner's World Editor's Choice winner. Why? Its engineered mesh upper, shock-absorbing technology, and BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT cushioning create a well-balanced package that stands out from the competition.


Sometimes it might seem that the footwear that provides the most stability always comes with a few too many ounces. This isn't the case with the PureCadence 7, which aims to give you support without sacrificing a lightweight design. It's only 9 ounces and its Lightweight GuideRails are dedicated to helping you maintain proper body alignment. That means your knees and hips will thank you, and overall your joints will get the support they need to stay healthy.

The Brook Glycerin 16 is for runners who can't get enough cushioning. The brand's DNA LOFT cushioning runs the length of the midsole, granting you incredibly soft landings. The shoe also has IDEAL Pressure Zones, which protect you from hard impacts as well. All that cushioning does come with a little bit of extra weight though. This is a 10.6-ounce shoe with a 10mm midsole drop.

The Brooks' Bedlam can play an energizing yet supportive role in your daily runs. This is only possible with the help of the brand's DNA AMP cushioning. Brooks likes to compare this foam technology to an old-fashioned pogo stick. The more downward energy you put into it, the more upward energy is returned. However, this 11.2-ounce shoe is one of the heaviest options on this list. 
When it comes to colors, you can choose anything from a deep blue with green accents to a white and gray pattern that's reminiscent of a snowstorm.


Unfortunately, no, the Brooks Levitate 2 doesn't actually allow you to hover above the ground. You might feel like it at times though! Just like the Bedlam, this shoe features DNA AMP technology. It also has the same weight: 11.2 ounces. The big difference is that this is a neutral running shoe, rather than a stability shoe. You won't find the GuideRails support system here, but you will find a flexible upper. 

Some runners like to keep their footwear as light as possible. If this describes you, the Brooks Hyperion will be your go-to option. It's an extremely light 6.4 ounces. Obviously, this isn't going to be a very supportive shoe, but it does feature BioMoGO DNA cushioning in the midsole. Fast and breathable, this shoe will help you blow past the competition. 

This list has no shortage of road running shoes, but here's another option for trail lovers. A rock shield and mud guard are both there to protect your feet from various obstacles you'll come across in the woods. And the bottom of the shoe is designed to offer plenty of traction. Despite all these protective features, the upper is waterproof yet breathable. It weighs 11.9 ounces, putting it on the opposite end of the spectrum from the lightweight Hyperion. 

A good run really gets your adrenaline pumping. Runners looking for a supportive ride should consider adding a dose of Brooks Adrenaline to their workout as well. The men's version is mostly available in various shades of blue, grey, white, and black.
Like many of Brooks' other stability footwear, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 features the brand's GuideRails holistic support system. The shoe's DNA LOFT crash pad helps you out during landings, and the 3D Fit Print saddle will keep your foot snug and secure during lengthy road running sessions. 


11 Best Brooks Women’s Running Shoes for 2018

One look at the Brooks Hyperion says: Speed. It doesn’t get much lighter than the Hyperion, which weighs just 5.6 ounces in a women’s size 8, and its flexibility is unparalleled. The Hyperion has a snug fit, so there are no surprises about exactly where your foot is going to land, a firm and fast ride for quick transition from footstrike to toe-off, and enough of a heel for longer road races. For uncompromising performance on race day, the best Brooks running shoes start with the Hyperion.

The Transcend 5 flies the Cushion flag high and proud. Like the Adrenaline, the Transcend is a support shoe adapted to the running mechanics of overpronators, but with the plush cushioning you would expect in a premium support shoe. Stability features coupled with an unstinting commitment to the comfort of your feet make the Transcend one of the best Brooks running shoes for pronation.

The Ravenna 9 is a support shoe with great stability for overpronators like the Transcend, but that’s where the similarities end. The Ravenna belongs to Brooks’ Energy line, so it’s an ounce lighter, and the sole provides higher energy return for a more responsive, springier feel. If you’re looking for the best deals on Brooks running shoes and a pair of shoes with some zip in it, look no further: the Ravenna 9 has earned a [Runner’s World Best Buy award](https://www.runnersworld.com/shoe/brooks-ravenna-9-womens).

The minimalist running movement claimed that human beings were born to run, so running barefoot or in the most minimal shoe possible was the way to go. And they had a point. Unfortunately, running over pointy sticks and rocks, let alone concrete and asphalt, turns out to be pretty miserable. Brooks’ Pure Project helped translate the principles of minimalism into functional running shoes, and the PureFlow 7 illustrates the results. The sole height drops only 4 mm from heel to toe for a more natural foot strike, and the shoes are light and flexible so that you can feel the ground beneath your feet—or Connect with it, as the best Brooks shoes from the Connect line are designed to do.

If the terrific price of the Ravenna and the springy soles of the Energy line appeal to you, but you have a more neutral footstrike, the Launch 5 is what you need. Some people find that the lightweight and extremely flexible Launch are some of the best Brooks running shoes for daily use, but I find that the Launch works best for tempo runs and workouts where I’m ready to roll through longer road intervals.

Although the Adrenaline GTS 18 is considerably less expensive than the premium Transcend, its soft heel and forefoot are right on pace with the Transcend, and it offers even more stability than the Transcend and many other support shoes. If you’re looking for Cushion and support, Brooks wants the Adrenaline GTS 18, possibly the best Brooks stability shoe, to be your go-to shoe (or GTS for short). The Adrenaline’s forefoot cushioning and stability make it one of the best Brooks shoes for walking, too.

If the Adrenaline sounds good and Cushion sounds great, but you don’t need a support shoe, the Brooks Ghost 10 provides everything you’re looking for. That doesn’t mean that the Ghost isn’t stable—it actually has terrific stability for a neutral shoe, so it’s a great option for people who aren’t sure what kind of footstrike they have or whose movement patterns fall somewhere in between neutral and overpronated. Runners looking for the best Brooks shoes for plantar fasciitis often need a shoe with a soft heel. The Ghost 10s stands out for the softness of their heel cushioning, making them the best Brooks women’s running shoes for plantar fasciitis. As for what Brooks running shoe is best for me, maybe you prefer Energy or Connect or Speed, but I keep coming back to the cushiony Ghost (and the people who pick the [Runner’s World Editor’s Choice awards](https://www.runnersworld.com/shoe/brooks-ghost-10-womens) do, too).

If a stable ride in a neutral shoe like the Ghost sounds good, but you think Brooks’ best shoes in the Cushion family would be even better with plush padding and luxuriously soft cushioning, the Glycerin 15, Brooks’ premium neutral trainer, has just what you’re looking for. Like the Ghost, the Glycerin has a notably soft heel, so it will also be one of the best Brooks running shoes for plantar fasciitis.

When it comes to the top Brooks running shoes, don’t forget about the other kinds of tops: hill tops and mountain tops. That’s where the Cascadia 12 is right at home. As a trail running shoe in Brooks’ Cushion family, it provides  a smooth and stable ride and the features trail shoes need to protect you from the elements, including a rock plate to protect your sole, a lugged outsole for traction across mixed terrain, and a water-shielding upper.

The PureCadence 7 is similar to the PureFlow and shares the moderate minimalism of other models in the Connect family. The two models are nearly identical in weight and have the same low 4 mm heel-toe drop for a natural-feeling ride, but the PureCadence 7 includes moderate support features for additional stability. The PureCadence 7 is ready for your next uptempo road session, but the best Brooks road running shoe in its Connect line wants you to feel the road, not forget about it.

Newly released from the experimental labs at Brooks, the Levitate belongs to the Energy family along with the Launch and Ravenna. While those models get their bounce from their light weight and a firm forefoot for that extra snap on toe-off, the Levitate is all about energy return. Brooks’ new DNA Amp midsole is more than a match for the bounciest Boost soles from Adidas, so the Levitates can be both highly energetic and softly padded in the forefoot and heel. The smooth and springy ride of the Levitate has sent it to the top of the charts—it’s also number one on the list of best men’s Brooks running shoes.

Best Running Shoes for $100 and Under

12 Best Running Shoes for $100 and Under

We’ve rounded up a list of the 12 best running shoes for $100, so you can hit the trails without breaking the bank.

The Revel is the perfect combination of style and features for days when you are running as many errands as you are miles. The Fit Knit upper looks smart and delivers a secure, distraction-free fit. And the BioMoGo DNA cushioning and Green Rubber outsole work together to create a springier, more responsive ride. The BioMoGo DNA cushioning system adapts to your unique shape and activity level for all-day comfort that feels just right.
The Fit Knit upper looks smart and delivers a secure, distraction-free fit, so you can log those miles with ease. Styled on go-fast Rhapsody, it also boasts a Fit Knit upper that provides just enough structure for running longer distances in security. When you are running errands instead of miles, we want your feet to feel as good at the end of the day as they did in the morning.

The stylish athletic design looks good anywhere from a meeting to a workout. The Revel is the best in minimalist running from Brooks. A mesh upper provides lightweight breathability, while heel-to-toe Green Rubber pods offer lots of cushioning. And there’s Adaptive Support technology in the midsole that gives you comfort at every step. Put it all together, and you have a run shoe that looks as great as it feels.

Enjoy a smooth, cushioned run in the Brooks PureFlow. This men's running shoe is lightweight and flexible, built for short and long-distance runs. Featuring N2 cushioning technology to absorb shock, it will have you feeling light, fast, and flexible every time you step on the road.

This running shoe is made for a variety of different surfaces, so you can mix up your workout without spending all your time on the treadmill. The lightweight midsole and outsole combo give it stability on the road as well as enough cushion and traction for the gym. The woven textile upper is durable yet lightweight and flexible, and an internal support system provides noticeable guidance through your stride. 

From track to trail, a minimal Brooks PureFlow shoe adapts to every play.
A great running shoe does not have to be all about speed and racing to record personal bests. Sometimes, it is about finding a neutral shoe with a cushioned heel for miles of running across the summer-day lawn or lacing up for strength training within an hour after a run.


The upper of the GT-1000 is reengineered with a new engineered mesh that adjusts to your foot's natural shape while providing a comfortable midfoot hold. The shoe also includes a removable sock liner for superior comfort and a Cool fit soft lining that transfers heat away from your skin. Asics High Abrasion Rubber in the outsole adds durability as well as increased traction with every stride.

The GT-1000 is built for a wide range of runners. The redesigned upper employs engineered mesh combined with stretchy materials that adjust to the natural shape of your foot, while it still provides the excellent midfoot support the GT-1000 is known for.

The GT-1000's are an everyday trainer featuring premium cushioning and a new engineered mesh upper that adjusts to your foot's natural shape while providing a comfortable midfoot hold. An enhanced midfoot hold keeps you stable as you push yourself—and whatever you're chasing—further in every stride.

The Nike Free RN Fly knit is made for short runs when you want a barefoot-like feel. Made of mostly mesh, Its sock-like upper has more stretch yarns than previous versions, so it hugs your feet like never before. The innovative sole expands and contracts with every movement. The foot-ready Nike Free sole has an updated construction, but still expands and contracts with every movement, keeping the foot close to the ground.
The revolutionary Nike Free RN Flyknit is designed for runners who are seeking the most natural experience. The innovative sole expands and contracts with every movement, giving you more energy as you run. It weighs less than your average shoe, so you feel like you are running barefoot. The updated running shoe has a precise fit and lightweight, flexible construction so you can focus on your run. A slimmer, lighter, and more flexible upper than ever.

The innovative sole expands and contracts with every movement you make. Plus, it's ready to wear right out of the box: no break-in required.


The UA Charged Bandit is a performance running shoe that features our revolutionary, soft, and springy Charged Cushioning underneath your foot for a responsive feel without the weight of the foam. With its adaptive fit that breathes with your foot and all-new Charged Shock Construction that adds more protection where you need it the most, this shoe provides both comfort and stability. You can run fast, land soft, or sprint flat out—either way, it will be cushioned like no other.

These shoes make it easy to stay on track even when the race gets tough. The rubber outsole is built on a wider platform in the forefoot for better stability, while welded seams throughout help reduce weight and improve comfort and durability. A lower-profile midsole and updated materials give these men's running shoes an even lighter, sleeker look and feel.
The Charged Bandit is tuned to give you a smooth ride, so you can train harder. A locked-down fit is also on the agenda with flex grooves that allow for a range of motion and strategically placed dimples on the outsole that increase grip in high-wear areas. The result? You feel more comfortable when you run so you can push harder and go farther.

With the Fresh Foam Zante women's trainer, we set out to give you more: More comfort with a foot-cradling fit, more flexibility with an adaptive guide rail in the outsole, and more cushioning and traction than ever before. It is a sneaker built to help you take charge of your run-in style and comfort.
The Fresh Foam Zante brings signature cushioning to the high-fashion, sport-and-play category. The New Balance Fresh Foam Zante features a bold strap design that is finished with metallic threads for a bold, standout look perfect for any workout. Pick up some speed in smooth and lightweight Performance Fresh Foam Zante. Its breathable mesh upper provides a sock-like feel with superior support for even the fastest workouts.

This dynamic trainer looks great with everything from yoga pants to your favorite jeans for that sleek streetwear look. Let your workout passions blossom in these women's shoes.


The New Balance Fresh Foam 860 v11 running shoe for men keeps you secure and supported with stability technology that makes you lighter on your feet. The Fresh Foam 860v11 delivers data-driven performance, reflective cushioning, and stability you can rely on. Built to the runner's specs, this shoe has a wider platform that provides a stable base, better tracking forward, and an engineered upper that wraps your foot just right. These shoes will make you forget you are wearing them with their comfortable fit.
New Balance has engineered the most technically advanced footwear to provide a superior ride that feels as good as it looks.

Pair this with data-driven design, the stability you can rely on, and an engineered upper for a fit that feels like it was made just for you. you can run faster and farther, without feeling the burden. Now in a running shoe built specifically for stability runners, it features a flexible design for a smooth ride and crisp support from heel to toe. And our innovative REVlite midsole foam stacks for enhanced responsiveness. The sleek engineered mesh upper features a Stable Frame providing needed support without sacrificing comfort. Blended with classic New Balance elements of durability and quality, this shoe is what your run - and your routine - have been waiting for. Holding the shoe just feels right, and you can feel the confidence in every run.

Altra One is your go-to shoe for running and training. Dual-layer EVA midsole with A-Bound top layer provides lightweight cushioning, Featherweight construction makes this shoe ultra-lightweight and efficient, a Zero Drop platform with 0mm heel-to-toe offset allows forefoot and heel to align properly reducing strain on the Achilles tendon, Foot-Shaped Toe Box accommodates toe splay. The Zero Drop platform of this shoe is made to level your legs for better posture and even better workouts. It comes with both Inner Flex and Foot Shaped Toe Box to make it convenient for you to run smoothly in it.

With a quick-dry, 100 percent mesh upper, and anti-microbial treatment, the One will keep your feet comfortable no matter how long of an adventure you choose to embark on. The Altra One is the ultimate everyday shoe for all types of runs and is versatile enough to take you anywhere.


The Asics GEL-Flux is an innovation in running footwear. Completely redesigned from the ground up. It features innovative construction using intelligent materials throughout that increase durability, stability, support, and comfort. It is the perfect fusion of our cutting-edge performance technologies: Solyte Midsole Material, Rearfoot, and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System, and Flytefoam Technology.

The dual-density guidance line enhances natural motion and transitions with every step, while the full-length adaptive midsole creates a flexible foot from heel to toe. Climb, run, and train in comfort with the women's Asics Gel-Flux running shoe. The durable upper is breathable and seamless for optimal comfort. Lace-up closure supports the midfoot before transitioning to a heel counter that cushions against Achilles irritation. 
The GEL-Flux is designed to accommodate a variety of foot shapes and sizes. So, you can feel confident even on the longest runs, it is equipped with a durable rubber outsole that provides traction and cushioning when you are pounding the pavement. Welcome to the future of running with the new GEL-Flux.


The Barefoot Trail Glove is Merrell's minimalist trail shoe designed to mimic the shape of the human foot and keep it in the natural position it would be in without shoes. Features include a 6 mm drop for minimal cushioning, an external sling that locks your heel in place, and recycled material used to make this shoe. The Bare Foot Trail Glove is a great choice on long runs or rugged trails.

Barefoot enthusiasts appreciate the unique feeling of freedom that comes with being as close to nature as possible. The Trail Glove is built to mimic the shape of your foot, keeping it in the position it would be in without shoes. Trail Glove helps return your foot to its natural shape, putting fewer demands on your feet, knees, and lower back than traditional shoes.

The Merell Trail Glove is a lightweight, highly breathable shoe designed for trail running. The Barefoot Technology construction helps keep your feet in a natural position by mimicking the shape of your foot. It has a minimal amount of cushioning between you and the ground to help reduce the shock and provide comfort. So, wherever your next adventure takes you, our Barefoot collection will be sure to keep you barefoot and smiling.

The Topo Athletic Salton Fli-Lyte is a comfortable slip-on sneaker that combines athletic styling and innovative comfort technology. The 23 x 20 mm platform offers the perfect balance of cushioning, flexibility, and ground feel, while the seamless, engineered mesh upper provides a breathable and secure fit. Fli-Lyte delivers a lightweight, natural running experience, without sacrificing comfort.

The seamless upper is engineered mesh. This running shoe has a breathable and secure fit. With an Ortholite footbed, it delivers a softer ride underfoot and maintains midsole response. Topo Athletic footwear is designed for natural running, with a focus on delivering a soft, springy ride underfoot and maintaining midsole response. Fli-Lyte has been developed to make the transition to barefoot running an easy and natural one. The durable rubber outsole provides traction in a lightweight package built to provide optimal motion control and responsiveness.
From everyday runs to workouts, Fli-Lyte serves as the ideal shoe for daily comfort and natural motion. A newly redesigned upper offers a seamless, engineered mesh that maintains its form through countless miles of activity. Whether used for training or keeping up with your family, your feet will thank you.

The new Vapor Glove is even more comfortable and flexible than ever. Engineered to mimic the shape of your foot, the Vapor Glove models are designed to move with you, giving you the barefoot feel without any of the sacrifices of going barefoot. Minimalist shoes mimic the shape of the human foot, allowing for it to remain in its natural position. This particular Merrell model also features an improved fit and increased abrasion resistance.

The Merrell Vapor Glove running shoe, designed to mimic the shape of your foot in barefoot form, keeps you supported while giving you a more natural and dynamic gait. It also features a slightly wider profile and an increased patterned mesh for an enhanced fit that cuts down bulk and makes it more durable.

The original Vapor Glove was the benchmark from which all other minimal trail running shoes were built. Developed by some of the top biomechanics experts in the field, its design addresses all typical running ailments. Finally, these minimalist shoes require no break-in time.


12 Best Running Shoes Under $100

Best Zero Drop (or Very Low Drop) Running Shoes

The Brooks Pureflow is a lightweight, low drop running running shoe. Unlike Brooks’s more signature lines, the Pureflow, with a thinner rubber outsole and low heel drop, is meant to go fast. In the Pureflow, runners feel the ground with every stride but still remain cushioned. BioMoGo and DNA technologies keep the shoe light and flexible while a flex grid outsole allows your foot to move naturally. The Pureflow has a soft ankle collar and has a snug upper and toe box. This shoe is a great racing flat that will have you flying down the streets or around the track. 

Altra is one of the premier zero drop brands. The Vanish R is a true racing flat with minimal support. It is lightweight and snug but not restrictive. This fast and responsive zero drop running shoe has a thin sole with smooth ground feel. The midsole has EVA foam and Altra’s propel plate that really pushes the foot forward. The Vanish R is flexible and well-constructed but not meant as a high mileage, daily trainer. It is priced right for a racing shoe that may not last as long as more substantial running shoes. 

As the name suggests, Vibram FiveFingers shoes are designed to look like gloves for your feet. These unique zero drop training shoes are perfect for those looking for a more barefoot-like running experience. With compression molded EVA, the Bikila offers more padding than other Vibram models. The Bikila has a thicker liner that feels like a sock. There is a little extra padding on heel and forefoot, that make this zero drop shoe feel like something between true barefoot runners and traditional soled shoe. With bold colors and the bold design, the Bikila is a standout zero drop training shoe.

The Altra Escalante is a versatile and durable cushioning shoe. The Escalante includes many of Altra’s signature touches like their FootShape toe box and FootPod technology on the outsole. The roomy toe box provides natural stability while the outsole mirrors the shape and structure of bones and tendons in the foot. The midsole is equipped with Altra’s foam blend (called EGO) to make it one of the best zero drop shoes with cushioning. The knit upper provides a snug but comfortable, sock-like fit. 

Like all of Altra’s shoes, the Lone Peak is a zero drop running shoe with a wide toe box. The Lone Peak has a unique foam blend and reliable durability. What sets the Lone Peak apart however, is it’s dynamic traction which makes it one of the best zero drop hiking shoes on the market. The upper fits tightly but the laces are adjustable and can be loosened for a roomier feel. The Lone Peak has good drainage for wet hikes and maintains a responsive feel. Your foot will feel comfortable and well protected from debris in the Lone Peak. 

The New Balance Minimus Trail 10 is a great low drop training shoe. The 4 mm drop is hardly noticeable so that it feels like a zero drop training shoe. The lugged Vibram outsole is great for trail running in wet or muddy conditions but is comfortable enough to be worn on smoother paved roads or indoors. The shoe fits snugly like a sock with a roomy toe box. With a combination of different meshes, the upper is both flexible and supportive. An added layer of GoreTex keeps the shoe warm and waterproof. The Minimus Trail 10 is a versatile trainer that works equally well as a zero drop walking shoe.

As one of the most trusted hiking shoe brands, but the Merrell Trail Glove certainly delivers as one of the best zero drop running and hiking shoes. This minimalist trainer has enough cushioning to be comfortable and responsive while still maintaining good ground feel. It boasts a barely noticeable protective forefoot rock plate with a Vibram rubber outsole to protect against rocky debris and provide good traction. The unique probiotic mesh upper is not only comfortable but also helps control odors. The sole provides great traction for wherever your feet take you. 


Topo is another company dedicated to making minimalist shoes that mimic the shape and movement of the foot. The Athletic Magnifly is true to this aesthetic. The wide rounded toe box and toe rocker help your foot remain stable while propelling you forward. The Magnifly has two layers of EVA foam in the midsole to give a cushioned feel while remaining firm and responsive. This zero drop neutral running shoe feels supportive but not too soft or squishy.  The probiotic mesh upper has no overlays so it keeps it lightweight with a natural, flexible feel.  The Magnifly is a durable daily trainer that zero drop fans will love. 


Topping our list of the best zero drop running shoes is the Altra Torin Plush. This Altra model has all the features you expect from an Altra shoe (natural foot shape, balanced cushion, FootPod outsole), but the Torin Plush is one of their most comfortable models. The latest version is even lighter than previous versions and has an updated, breathable mesh upper that manages to cradle the foot without feeling restrictive or tight. This shoe is a durable workhorse that feels as good on fast short runs as it does on long, leisurely runs. 

From Amazon

Women's Brooks PureFlow 7

Shoekicker Best Price

See other prices we found

Complete results brought to you by Shoekicker

All prices for Women's Brooks PureFlow size

Learn more about the Women's Brooks PureFlow

Other popular running shoes