Minimax - Minimum Drop, Maximum Cushioning Shoes (Hoka, Altra, etc.)

Shoes in the Minimax style have thick, soft soles with far less height difference between the front and back of the shoe (drop). This category of shoes was started by Hoka and followed by several others. Only the Altra Olympus (and to a lesser extent the Altra Paradigm) matches the Hokas for their oversized soles made of extra soft foam. There are a number of other shoes that come close, and I've put them under the 'Minimax Transitional' category.

• The best shoe in this category is the Altra Olympus, capturing the best of the Hoka approach and improving on it.
• The Hoka Bondi has greater cushioning and protection, but is heaver and pricy.
• Skechers has made a valiant attempt with their Skechers GOrun Ultra, producing a Hoka like shoe for less than half the price. Its major problem is the drop, as the heel is much higher than the forefoot.
• Adidas Energy Boost. This is built like a traditional shoe, but the new midsole material makes it seem much better cushioned that you'd expect.
• The Mizuno Cursoris is soft, light and seems faster than most other shoes in this category, but has less protection and longevity.
• The Altra Torin is zero drop, and has more cushioning than a minimalist shoe, but the foam is quite firm.
• The Saucony Virrata is nearly as good as the Torin, but cheaper.
• New Balance Fresh Foam 980 has less of a drop than a traditional shoe, but it's too firm to be considered a Minimax shoe.