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[[File:Runnering Shoes 1449592 m.jpg|right|thumb|500px]]{{DISPLAYTITLE:Best Running Shoes}}These reviews cover what I consider to be the best running shoesas well as some strong contenders and a few promising shoes that missed the mark. Based on [[The Science of Running Shoes]], I believe that [[What to Look for in Running Shoes]] is a running shoe should that does not interfere with the way you run, and therefore though I favor include some shoes that have less of can be useful in transitioning from a raised heel and donmore traditional shoe. 't resist the way your foot moves as it lands. These shoes are either the thick soled 'minimal drop, maximum cushioning' (Minimax) or the thin soled minimalist style of shoe, with some transitional shoes that These reviews are closer to the traditional style. I have included a couple of traditional styled running shoes, mostly for comparison. <div style="float:right;">__TOC__</div>=Where to Buy=I generally recommend buying shoes from [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/ RoadRunnerSports.com] as they allow you to run in the shoes and still return them for an exchange. Itnot being maintained's hard to know how a shoe works for you until you've run in it for some distance. Another good option is [http://www.zappos.com/ Zappos.com] which provides free shipping both ways, which allows you to spend time wearing the shoes around the house to see how they fit, though you can't run in them and return them. =The best of the bestBest Running Shoe=My favorite shoes right now are the Altra Olympus and the Adidas Energy Boost. I use the Boost for faster paced running, and the Olympus for longer distances, though they are both good at either task. In many ways, the Olympus is a better Hoka, something I've been looking forward to for some time. My preferred minimalist shoes are the Merrell Glove series. {{:Shoes-best}}

=Shoe Categories=

I've classified my shoe recommendations into several categories, each with their own pros and cons.* '''Minimax[[Maximalist]]''' (Minimum Drop, Maximum Cushioning). The minimal drop has been the hallmark of minimalist shoes, but these shoes also include lots of cushioning. At their best, these shoes can be like running barefoot on a cushioned track. Maximalist shoes offer lots of protection and comfort. They are great for longer ultramarathons where sore feet become a problem and for trail running where the cushioning makes it easier to ignore smaller rocks and stones. However, the extra cushioning may [[The Science of Running Shoes| increase the risk of injury]] compared with minimalist shoes and the extra sole thickness increases the stress on your ankle. * '''Minimax TransitionalOptimal'''. These shoes ideally have just enough cushioning to improve [[Running Economy]] without the weight penalty of the Maximalist shoes. These shoes are part way between what often called "racing shoes", or "racing flats", but I consider don't believe this term is appropriate any more. Many years go, a true Minimax shoe and a traditional shoe"racing flat" had little cushioning, but with the advances in materials science, these shoes are now surprisingly comfortable.* '''TraditionalFast'''. The classic running shoe has a high heelThese are the fastest shoes, normally about 10mm higher than the forefootoften compromised in other ways to achieve their performance. * '''Minimalist Transitional'''. These shoes are close to vary between the almost barefoot and those with a little more protection. I consider a traditional running shoe, but have reduced heel height and a thinner soleto be minimalist if it has insufficient cushioning to improve [[Running Economy]]. * '''MinimalistBalanced'''. If you want a little more protection These are shoes that are part way between minimalist and cushioning than the virtually barefoot optionsMaximalist, but want are too heavy to stay as close as you can, this is the next step upbe considered Optimal. * '''Virtually BarefootTraditional'''. These The classic running shoe has a high heel, normally about 10mm higher than the forefoot . The biggest advantage of traditional shoes are close is the wide variety to barefootchoose from, but have some protectionmaking it far easier to find the right fit. =Shoe Characteristics Unfamiliar Brands=There are a number of characteristics You're probably familiar with brands like Nike, Adidas, New Balance, etc., but you may be less familiar with Hoka and Altra. * '''Cushioning[[Hoka Shoe Review| Hoka One One]].'''. Shoes vary in The Hoka shoes started the mount 'Minimum Drop, Maximum Cushioning' style of cushioning shoe. The Hokas generally use extremely soft foam, with a wide base to improve stability. Their soles are thicker than most shoes so they are quite heavy, though not as heavy as they providelook. There is reasonable scientific evidence that higher levels Most of cushioning increase stresses the Hokas do well on joints both asphalt and have higher rates of injuryrocky trails. However, cushioning is also one way shoes The Hokas provide remarkable protection from rough trail surfaces, and the thick, soft soles mold themselves around stones (to provide more grip on rocky trails than you'd expect. Other than the sole, the other Hoka is inflexibility). Cushioning can also reduce foot soreness on longer ultramarathonsa poor design, with a remarkably tight toe box and they are typically rather inflexible. * '''ProtectionAltra'''. Shoes provide protection from stones, uneven surfaces The two distinctive features of the Altra shoes are their zero drop and abrasions. This protection can be in their shape which mirrors the form shape of the human foot. Originally their shoes were quite minimalist with a minimalist shoe's thin outsole, or thinner sole that was typically made of quite firm foam. More recently they have moved towards softer cushioning and the thick foam of a Minimax shoe[[Maximalist]] style. * '''FitTopo'''. The importance Like Altra, Topo make shoes that are designed for the human foot. I find that the shape of Topo shoes is even better than Altra, with more room for my toes to move naturally. =How Long Will They Last?=There are a lot of getting variables in how long a running shoe will last, involving both the runner and the shoe. You'll need to understand your running style to understand how long a shoe is likely to last for you. * A runner that fits correctly is often underestimatedlands harder will wear out their shoes more quickly. * '''Weight'''If the landing forces are concentrated, this will dramatically increase shoe wear. The weight of So a runner than lands with a shoe makes midfoot strike will tend to spread the landing forces, where a big difference runner that lands on the edge of the heel will focus the forces in the a small area. * Good [[Running Economy| energy cost of runningForm]]ensures that the shoe doesn't scrape as it lands. Even small changes in weight can make Without this 'paw back', the scraping will wear away the rubber or foam quickly. If the scraping is combined with a concentrated landing area, the effect is a big difference in how fast we runrapid removal of material under the initial contact patch. * For most shoes, the limiting factor in shoe life is the foam cushioning rather than the harder rubber outsole. The means the foam becomes compressed and offers less cushioning. The reduced cushioning is generally not the problem, but rather it'''Drop'''s the uneven reduction across the shoe that starts to cause biomechanical problems. A common situation is that the foam under the ball of the foot wears and so the foot is tilted inward. The drop foam insole often fails faster than the midsole, so consider [[Replacement Insoles]] to extend the shoe life. * Thinner shoes tend to last longer than thicker shoes, which is perhaps counterintuitive. This is difference in sole because a shoe with a 40mm midsole that loses 20% of its thickness between due to wear would be 8mm thinner, where a shoe with only 10mm would only lose 2mm. * The life of the forefoot hard rubber outsole is rarely an issue, and heelby the time the outsole is worn through the foam is dead. Larger drops However, there are shoes that use relatively soft outsole that can interfere with natural running formwear more quickly. If you're wearing through the outsole before the foam is dead, there's a good chance you're not pawing back correctly and may increase the probability your shoes are scraping as they land. This tends to waste energy and is a sign of poor [[Foot Strike| heel strikeRunning Form]]. =Shoe Dissection =* Shoes that don't have a hard rubber outsole can suffer from abrasion wearing away the foam. With these shoes the scraping due to lack of paw back has a much bigger impact on shoe life as the foam is much less resistant to being scraped. * Temperature can play a factor in shoe life. Hot temperatures can soften shoes and cause them to wear quickly. At Badwater I've cut many of my had shoes wear away more in half 30 miles than I would normally see in 300. On the other hand, foam gives far less cushioning in cold weather, so a shoe that might be okay in the summer might feel worn out in winter. * The running surface changes the rate of abrasion if that's the limiting factor. Rough concrete or asphalt will erode the shoe more quickly than a smooth surface or dirt. * How much wear is too much also depends on the individual runner. Some runners may tolerate very little wear, but I know runners that can continue to reveal their constructionrun injury free in shoes that most people would consider destroyed.

{| class="wikitable"

|- valign="top"

|[[File:HokaSliceWornHS6Shoes.JPGjpg|none|thumb|x300px|The Hoka Bondi. ]]300px|This is a picture of a friend's [[File:OlympusSlice.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Altra Olympus.Asics Gel Hyper Speed 6]]|- valign="top"|[[File:HokaOlympusSliceshowing dramatic outsole wear.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|A comparison between These shoes had only completed 230 miles but you can see the Altra Olympus and Hokasoutsole is completely gone in places.]]|[[File:GTSlice.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Asics GT]]|- valign="top"|[[File:FreeSliceI suspect that the runner in question is scraping slightly on landing rather than pawing back fully.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Nike Free]]|[[File:PureSliceComparisonHS6Shoes.JPGjpg|none|thumb|x300px300px|Brooks Pure]]|- valign="top"|[[File:HattoriSliceBy comparison this is my Hyper Speed 6 shoes that have far more miles on them.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Saucony Hattori]]|[[File:GoRunSliceYou can see that most of the outsole still has its texture, and the only real outsole wear is on the extreme heel.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Skechers GO Run Ultra]]

|}

=What Style?=There are pros and cons of each style of shoe, from Minimalist to Minimax. * '''Minimalist/Virtually Barefoot'''. The benefit of these shoes is their light weight and lack of cushioning. Minimalist shoes are associated My Experiences with a [[Are your running shoes injuring you| lower risk of injury than traditional shoes]]. * '''Traditional'''. The biggest advantage of traditional shoes is the wide variety to choose from, making it far easier to find the right fit. However, there are concerns that traditional levels of cushioning may increase injury risk. * '''Minimax'''. Minimax shoes offer lots of protection and comfort. They are great for longer ultramarathons where sore feet become a problem and for trail running where the cushioning makes it easier to ignore smaller rocks and stones. However, the extra cushioning may [[Are your running shoes injuring you| increase the risk of injury]] compared with minimalist shoes and the extra sole thickness increases the stress on your ankle. * '''Transitional'''. These shoes are part way between categories, and so they tend to have a mix of characteristics. Shoe Life=Shoe Modifications=[[File:ModifiedShoes.JPG|none|thumb|250px|Clockwise from the top: [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NIK1444/ Nike Free 3.0] (early version) cut open more than most to form a 'running sandal', [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/SCN984/ Saucony Hattori], [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NBA1542/ NB Trail Minimus], [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NIK1444/ Nike Free 3.0] and the non-minimalist [[Hoka Shoe Review|Hoka]].]]With the exception of the FiveFingers, the Mizuno Curoris and the Altras, Since I find that all shoes benefit from cutting open the toe box. This allows the toes to spread out as you toe off, creating started tracking my shoe life more natural biomechanics and preventing toe blisters.=Summary Table={| class="wikitable"! Category! Shoe! Weight! Drop! Sole thickness! Subjective cushioning ! Use! Notes|-| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" rowspan="6" |Minimax| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Altra Olympus| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |10.0oz| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Zero| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |36mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |10| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Road/Rocky Trail| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Top pick|-| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |[http://www.zappos.com/hoka-one-one-bondi-2-anthracite-grey-yellow Hoka Bondi 3]| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |11.1oz| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |5mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |30/35mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |9| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Road/Rocky Trail| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |[http://www.zappos.com/hoka-one-one-mafate-3-lime-anthracite-white Hoka Mafate 3]| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |15.1oz| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |6mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |35/41mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |5| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Muddy Trail| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/HKA116/mens-hoka-one-one-conquest/ Hoka Conquest]| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |11.9oz| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |4mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |28/34mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |6| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Road/Rocky Trail| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/HKA108/mens-hoka-one-one-stinson-trail/ Hoka Stinson] | style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |11.8oz| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |6mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |32/38mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |7| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Road/Rocky Trail| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |[http://www.zappos.com/hoka-one-one-rapa-nui-2-tarmac-black-cyan-white Hoka Rapa Nui 2 Tarmac]| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |10.7oz| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |4mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |26/30mm| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |3| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Road| style="background-color: #99FFCC;" |Lighter for a Hoka but overly firm|-| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" rowspan="6" |Minimax Transitional| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |[http://www.zappos.com/skechers-performance-go-run-ultra~1 Skechers GOrun Ultra]| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |9.5oz| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |14 mm (10mm without insole)| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |26/40mm (24/34mm without insole)| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |9.5 (heel)| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |[http://www.runningwarehouse.com/adidas_Energy_Boost/descpageMRS-AENBM1.htmlhttp:/www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/ADI1674/mens-adidas-energy-boost/ Adidas Energy Boost]| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |9.3| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |9mm| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |17/26mm| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |8| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |A remarkable shoe accurately with new midsole technology|-| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MIZ752/ Mizuno Cursoris]| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |6.8oz| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Zero| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |18mm| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |3| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Soft, light and comfortable|-| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |[http://www.zappos.com/altra-zero-drop-footwear-the-torin-black-scuba-blue Altra Torin]| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |9.0oz| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Zero| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |20mm| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |3.5| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/SCN1038/ Saucony VirrataMilestonePod]| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |6.7oz| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Zero| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |17mm| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |3| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NBA1584/mens-new-balance-fresh-foam-980/ New Balance Fresh Foam 980]| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |9.1oz| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |4mm| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |21/25mm| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |4| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCFFFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" rowspan="2" |Traditional| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/BRK1126/mens-brooks-transcend/ Brooks Transcend]| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |11.8oz| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |8mm| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |22/30mm| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" || style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/ASC1638/mens-asics-gt2000-2/ Asics GT 2000]| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |10.9oz| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |9mm| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |20/29mm| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" || style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCECFF;" |A shoe that almost defines 'traditional'|-| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" rowspan="6" |Minimalist Transitional| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NIK1654/mens-nike-free-flyknit-30/ Nike Free 3.0 Flyknit] | style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |7.1oz| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |4mm| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Highly flexible|-| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MIZ724/ Mizuno Wave Universe]| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |3.8oz| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |4mm| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Lightweight|-| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/INN130/mens-inov8-flite-195/ Inov-8 F-Lite 195] | style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |6.8oz| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |3mm| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Road/Trail| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/INN114/ Inov-8 X-Talon 190] | style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |6.7oz| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |3mm| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Muddy Trail| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Aggressive tread|-| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp?isLoggedIn=&isClubMember=&from=searchBox&Query=Minimus+&x=0&y=0 NB Minimus]| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |6-8oz| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |4mm| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Road/Trail| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp?isLoggedIn=&isClubMember=&from=searchBox&Query=Kinvara+&x=0&y=0 Saucony Kinvara]| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |7.7oz| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |4mm| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" || style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" |Road| style="background-color: #CCCCFF;" ||-| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" rowspan="5" |Minimalist| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |[[Modified Nike Free]] | style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Varies – 5 to 6oz| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Zero| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" || style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" || style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Road| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |[http://www.zappos.com/saucony-hattori Saucony Hattori]| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |4.4oz| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Zero| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |15mm| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" || style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Road| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |No laces|-| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NBA1522/ NB Road Minimus]| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |6.4oz| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Zero| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" || style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" || style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Road| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MRL1000/ Merrell Trail Glove] | style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |6.2oz| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Zero| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |10mm| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" || style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Road/Trail| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MRL1002/ Merrell Road Glove] | style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |6.5oz| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Zero| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |11mm| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" || style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" |Road| style="background-color: #FFCCCC;" ||-| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" rowspan="2" |Virtually barefoot| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp?isLoggedIn=&isClubMember=&from=searchBox&Query=FiveFingers+&x=0&y=0 Vibram FiveFingers]| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |5-10oz| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |Zero| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" || style="background-color: #FFCC99;" || style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |Road/Trail| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" ||-| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |[http://www.zappos.com/vivobarefoot-one-m-navy-sulpher Vivobarefoot One M] | style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |7oz| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |Zero| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" || style="background-color: #FFCC99;" || style="background-color: #FFCC99;" |Road| style="background-color: #FFCC99;" ||}=Minimum Drops, Maximum Cushioning=This category of shoes was started by Hoka and followed by several others. Only the Olympus 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. Here's a summary list of all the Minimax shoes:* The best shoe in this category found that there is the Olympus, capturing the best of the Hoka approach and improving far more wear on it.* The Hoka has greater cushioning and protection, but is heaver and pricy.* Skechers has made a valiant attempt with their 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 Cursoris is soft, light and seems faster than most other my shoes in this category, but has less protection and longevity. * The Torin is zero drop, and has more cushioning than a minimalist shoe, but the foam is quite firmI realized.* The 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 a true Minimax trainer. ==Altra Olympus=={| class="wikitable" |With my [[File:OlympusSlice.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Altra Olympus.Foot Strike]]|[[File:HokaOlympusSlice.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|A comparison between the Altra Olympus and Hokas. Notice the difference in the way cushioning degrades so that the sole tapers towards under the front of the shoe.]]|}This has rapidly become one ball of my favorite running shoes. It has the soft cushioning that foot is like the best of the Hoka range, combined with zero drop and quite a nice wide toe box. It's remarkably flexible given its cushioning, with an outsole that works well on the road. Like the Hokas, the cushioning means the shoe works well on rocky trails as well. Like other Altra shoes, the tongue area is wider bit lower than most shoes, reducing the pressure on the top rest of your foot. The weight is similar to a Hoka, but somehow feels lighter than a Hoka when I'm running. Like the Hokas, the midsole thins at the front and back to create a rocker effect, and this is a little more noticeable than the Hokasforefoot. I felt this worked well, though I've talked to runners who have found the rocker a little disconcerting. You can see the difference in the slice through the two shoes above, with the Hoka tapering in front calculate that about 2mm of compression under the ball of the foot and the Olympus starting to taper much further back. ==Hokas=={{Main|Hoka Shoe Review}}[[File:HokaHalfs.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|The Hoka Bondi cut in half, showing the outside and inside views. You can see that the midsole foam is a lot higher like running on the outside than the inside.]]The Hoka shoes started the 'Minimum Drop, Maximum Cushioning' style camber of shoe and are still unique in their level of cushioning. The Hokas generally use extremely soft foam, with a wide base to improve stability. Their soles are thicker than most other shoes in this categorystandard road (~3°), so they are quite heavy, though not as heavy as they look. Most of the Hokas do well on both asphalt which creates additional stresses and rocky trails, though the Mafate is designed for softer trails and does not like asphalt. The Hokas provide remarkable protection from rough trail surfaces, and the thick, soft soles mold themselves around stones to provide more grip on rocky trails than you'd expect. Other than the sole, the Hoka is a poor design, with a remarkably tight toe box and they are typically rather inflexible. * The Bondi is my favorite all round Hoka. The toe box is tight, even for might be a Hoka, but it's got the best balance cause of soft cushioning and reasonable weightinjury. There is also the Bondi Speed/[http://www.zappos.com/hoka-one-one-bondi-evo-brilliant-blue-hi-rise-citrus Bondi Evo] that is quite similar, In as is the Stinson.* The Mafate is the thickest and heaviest of the Hokas, and it firmer than you might expect. However, it has the most aggressive outsole for use in muddy trails.* The Conquest is a little lighter than the Bondi, but is not as softly cushioned. The Conquest is using a newer foam 100 miles (RMAT160Km) that they claim is longer lasting. I've not worn out had shoes compress by 4mm under the ball of my foot! Since I injured my Conquest shoes yet, so meniscus I've found I can't comment on the longevitytolerate shoes with that much wear, but don't expect the same softness as the Bondithis artificial camber irritates my knee. * The Rapa Nui 2 is lighter, thinner and a little cheaper than the other Hokas, but Prior to my knee injury I found it far too firm to be considered 'maximum cushioning'. In factcould get away with quite massively worn shoes, the Adidas Energy Boost feels far more cushioned to mesometimes putting on as much as 3, though it does not offer the same level of protection from stones or uneven surfaces. =Minimax Transitional=These shoes are not quite 'minimum drop000 miles (5, maximum cushioning' of the Minimax category, but they're thicker than most shoes and tend to have less drop000 Km) before retiring them. ==Skechers GOrun Ultra==

{| class="wikitable"

|- valign="top"

|[[File:GoRunSliceShoeWear1.JPG|none|thumb|x300px300px|A slice through This picture shoes the GOrun ultras.]]|[[File:GoRunPressure.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Here's a close up with my foot in the slice. The arrows give an idea compression of where the pressure points are midsole that occurs under the ball and heel of the foot. Here you can see the sole thickening in front of the heel, creating a 'medial post'.]]

|- valign="top"

|[[File:GORunAnkleShoeWear2.JPG|none|thumb|x300px300px|A close up of Here's a cross section through the anklesame shoe, where you can see showing how much thinner the foam that holds the has become due to wear. (This is from a left shoe against , so the back ball of the ankle.]]|[[File:GORunAnkle2.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|Here's the closeup with my ankle, and the blue arrow points to where the shoe presses foot is on the heel bone (calcaneus) and right of the calcanean bursa. The red arrow points to the Achilles' tendon, which is where most shoes pressslice. )]]

|- valign="top"

|[[File:GORunSoleInsole Wear and Foot Strike.JPGjpg|none|thumb|x300px300px|A close up An insole where I've marked the area of the solecompression, showing which is under the wear that occurred after just 130 milesball of my foot. ]]

|}

Is this a Hoka for only $80=How Far Can I Run In That Shoe? Sadly not, but it's closer than you might expect, though the cost per mile probably works out more than the longer lasting Hokas.=* '''Cushioning'''. The GOrun Ultra Many shoe reviews talk about "this shoe is massively cushioned in the heel; it's as thick as the thicker Hokasgood up to half marathon", but softer. However, the forefoot is far thinner. * '''Protection'''. The GOrun offers little protection compared with or some other Minimax shoesdistance. This is partly because the forefoot Such advice is relatively thin and partly because of the large foam lugs. If you hit a stone between the lugs the forefoot is only 22mm (with insole). If the stone hits based on the gap in idea that many people find that as the red foamdistance increases, you'd only have about 17mm of remarkably soft foam. Ouch. * '''Drop'''. The drop with the insole is 14mm, making it worse than they want a traditional running shoe. If you take the insole out, the drop is reduced to 10mm, which is not quite as bad, though slightly little more than a traditional shoe. However, if you look at the picture above, you'll notice the cut outs in the red foam around the forefoot, which makes the drop seem worse as the forefoot is softer and more compressible. ** Note that the measurements published by Skechers indicate the drop is 8mm with the insole and 4mm without the insole. I've also seen the measurements of 23/27mm sole height quoted by third parties. However, an independent measurement is 27/41mm with the insole, 25/35mm without, which close cushioning to my measurement. I took my measurement protect their feet from under the ball pounding and heel to offset a little of the foot using the slice seen abovefatigue that sets in over time. * '''Medial post'''. The construction of the sole is a little oddHowever, becoming thicker just in front and to the inside because different runners want radically different levels of your heel. This creates what is sometimes called a medial postcushioning, which generalized advice is intended to resist the natural roll of your foot as it landsunhelpful at best. * '''Feel'''. I found the combination of the medial post and the large drop rather disconcertingSome runners may want a [[Maximalist]] shoe when they run a 5K, and while the heel is nicely cushioned, the forefoot feels rather poor. I've others will run a few miles with a GOrun Ultra on one foot and a Hoka Bondi on the other (don't do that at home), and the shoes feel superficially similar100-mile race barefoot. * '''Heel counter'''. The heel counter on this shoe There is rather different to other shoes, putting almost no pressure on the Achilles' tendon. Instead the heel counter presses on the back of the heel bone, which feels rather odd initially, and when running faster it felt like the GORun Ultras would come off. However, it's possible maximum distance that this can be run in any given shoe may work better if ; it depends on what you are having Achilles' Tendon issues. * '''Wear'''want. Shoes that lack the hard rubber outsole layer always wear more quickly, but the GORun Ultra's have lugs that wear even quicker than others. If found noticeable wear after only 130 miles. * '''Injury. '''I found that I started to develop knee pain during compare cushioning levels provided by the time I was trying out these shoes, even though I was only running short distances in them. The knee pain disappeared after I ceased using the GORun ultras. This could be coincidence of coursereview, but it does concern me. The GOrun has most of the softness and comfort of the Hoka at remember a far lower purchase price. Howeverthicker, I firmer shoe would have some concerns with amount of drop and the rapid wear that undermines the cost advantage. ==Adidas Energy Boost==[[File:adidas-energy-boost.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/ADI1702/mens-adidas-energy-boost-2/brproductcrosssell/ Adidas Energy Boost].]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/ADI1702/mens-adidas-energy-boost-2/brproductcrosssell/ Adidas Energy Boost] has a new material in the midsole (see 'Adidas Boost Foam' below) which changes how this shoe feels. The Boost does not really count as a minimalist shoe or a Minimax shoe, as it has a mainstream design, with the typical raised heel and same cushioning that is no thicker than normal. However, because the boost foam works so well, it works far better than you'd expect. * As a Minimax. Though it's not as thick rating as a Minimax shoe, it's soft cushioning makes it feel much thicker than it actually isthinner, and it's a lot softer than something like the Brooks Transcend. While it does not offer the protection of a Hoka, it does offer a lot of the feeling of soft cushioning. * As a minimalist. If you take out the insole, you also lose quite a bit of the higher heel and have something that's close to a minimalist shoe. I estimate that the insole is about 3mm in the forefoot and 5mm at the heel. Without that extra, the shoe is a 7mm drop (14mm/21mm). The shoe is light weight, and the new foam is pleasant under foot, combining a forefoot that had good ground but would feel with reasonable protection. The Energy Boost is immediately comfortable, with a light, flexible upper with no noticeable seams. I'm thankfully Adidas has used a traditional tongue and laces, rather than a sock style upper or Velcro fastening. And while the sole has the traditional raised heel, there is none of the multi-density foam or other intrusions that are so common. I think a lot of people will buy the boost because of its immediate comfort, but stay with it for its extraordinary characteristicsdifferent. =Comparison Table=Mizuno Cursoris{{:Shoes-table}}=Shoe Modifications=''Main article: [[File:Cursoris.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MIZ752/ Cursoris].Shoe Modifications]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MIZ752/ Cursoris] is a light shoe with a soft sole, almost as soft as the Hokas, but only half the thickness so overall the cushioning is less. The Cursoris is clearly a road shoe, with little protection from stones, and no outsole grip. The toe box is the biggest and best designed of any shoe I've tried, even better than the Altra's. The upper is soft, which some people find strange and can result in them being over tightened. Once you get used to the feeling that they're barely there, they stay in place well. However, they wear as quickly as you might expect, so the cost per mile is quite high. <br style="clear: both" />==Altra Torin== [[File:TorinModifiedShoes.jpgJPG|none|thumb|200px250px|The [http://www.zappos.com/altra-zero-drop-footwear-Clockwise from the-torin-black-green Torin].]]The [httptop://wwwNike Free 3.zappos.com/altra-zero-drop-footwear-the-torin-black-green Torin] is superficially similar 0 (early version) cut open more than most to the Cursoris, with form a similar shape and sole. However the Torin uses a firmer foam'running sandal', so it feels quite different. Like the CursorisSaucony Hattori, the Torin is a road shoeNB Trail Minimus, with no outsole gripNike Free 3. While the Torin has a better toe box than nearly every other shoe, it's not as good as the Cursoris. The Torin has lots of space beside the big toe, but the smallest toe is more cramped and the roof of the toe box is low. There are a lot of complaints about the lacing on the Torin not coming up the foot high enough so it feels like there is too much movement around the ankle. While this feels a little odd, I did not notice any actual problems from this unless the laces are loose. The firmer foam will provide more protection from stones 0 and uneven surfaces than the Cursoris, but it will not provide the level of soft cushioning. <br style="clear: both" />==Saucony Virrata==[[File:Virrata.jpgHoka Shoe Review|none|thumb|200px|The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/SCN1038/ VirrataHoka]].]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/SCN1038/ Virrata] feels almost identical to With a few exceptions such as the TorinMizuno Curoris, and when I wore one on either foot I found I could feel only minor differences in the sole. The toe box however is like find that most other shoes and is way too small, but benefit from [[Shoe Modifications| cutting open the toe box open mostly solves ]]. This allows the problem. The Virrata is a nice shoetoes to spread out as you toe off, creating more natural biomechanics and while not as good as the other shoes in this category, it's quite a bit cheaper than most of the otherspreventing toe blisters. <br style="clear: both" />==New Balance Fresh Foam 980=Shoes for Heavier Runners=The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NBA1584/mens-new-balance-fresh-foam-980/ New Balance Fresh Foam 980] has less of a drop than As a traditional running shoebroad generalization, but it does not have the same soft cushioning of a Minimax shoe. This foot length is not a bad shoe for someone looking for slightly less of a drop than a traditional shoe while avoiding the thin sole of a minimalist shoe. =Traditional=I've included a couple of traditional running shoesgenerally proportional to height, mostly for comparison.==Asics ==[[File:GTSlice.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|A dissection of body weight is proportional to the Asics GT.]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/ASC1638/mens-asics-gt2000-2/ Asics GT 2000] has been around for many years in one form or another, a reflection square of its popularity. The GT 2000 series could be considered one of the best "average" running shoesyour height, and it is often used as the starting point when a new runner foot area is looking for their first shoes. The original GT 2000 was introduced back in 1995 and has been updated many times. (They did add 10 proportional to the number every year until the 2170, then reverted to 2000 and added a version numbersquare of your foot length.) So I've included the GT 2000 here partly as a good starting point for those looking This means that for a traditional running shoe and partly as given BMI, the shoe that is probably closest to perceived cushioning should be about the average running shoe. ==Brooks Transcend==The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/BRK1126/mens-brooks-transcend/ Brooks Transcend] is included in this section, not because it is one same regardless of the best running shoesabsolute weight, but because it is sometimes considered a "maximum and you'll need more cushioning" shoe, and Brooks claim it if your BMI is "the Ultimate Plush Ride". However, when compared with a traditional running shoes, the transcend is only 1-2 mm thickerhigher, and the foam less cushioning if your BMI is too firm to be considered a Minimax shoelower. =Minimalist Transitional=These You may also need more cushioning if your feet are not zero drop, but they have disproportionately small and less drop than a traditional shoe, if your feet are lightweight and flexibledisproportionately large. ==Nike Free=={| class="wikitable" |- valign="top"|[[File:Free30v4.jpg|none|thumb|x200px|The (unmodified) Nike Free 3.0 Flynit.]] |[[File:FreeSlice.JPG|none|thumb|x200px|Nike Free]]|}Nike Free are running shoes that are light weightOf course, different runners prefer radically different levels of cushioning, with very flexible soles. Even without modification, the Nike Free 3.0 is a good some liking an un-cushioned minimalist running shoe and others a half way house to a zero drop massively cushioned Maximalist shoe. There is no outer sole (the hard rubber that meets the road), just a robust midsole (the cushioning part). The midsole has deep groves cut into it But if you'd like to allow the shoe to flex more than is possible with a traditional shoe. There are lots of different models of Nike Freescale my reviews, but I would recommend using the [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NIK1654/mens-nike-free-flyknit-30/ Free 3.0] flynit. (Most Frees have a number that indicates how flexible they are. The idea is that 'm 5' 10.0 would be a traditional shoe and 1.0 would be barefoot.) <br style="clear: both" /> ==Mizuno Wave Universe==[[File:WUniverse.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The [http:180cm, I weigh about 140 pounds//www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MIZ724/ Mizuno Wave Universe].]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MIZ724/ Mizuno Wave Universe] 64 Kg, which is a racing flat that is surprisingly comfortable BMI of about 20, and remarkably light weighttake about a men's US 10. I ran in these before I discovered the Nike Free and got on well with them. <br style="clear: both" 5/> ==Inov-8 Trail Shoes==[[File:Flite195.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The [http:UK 10//www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/INN120/ F-Lite 195] trail EU 45 shoesize.]][http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp%3Ffrom%3DsearchBox%26Query%3Dinov-8 Inov-8] produces a wide range of minimalist trail shoes. Of particular note are their [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/INN114/ X-Talon 190] for muddy conditions and their [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/INN120/ F-Lite 195] for rocky conditions. I've used a number of Inov-8 shoes and I highly recommend them, especially for the more gnarly and technical trails. <br style="clear: both" /> =Shoe Gallery=Saucony Kinvara==[[File:Kinvara.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp?isLoggedIn=&isClubMember=&from=searchBox&Query=Kinvara+&x=0&y=0 Saucony Kinvara].]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp?isLoggedIn=&isClubMember=&from=searchBox&Query=Kinvara+&x=0&y=0 Saucony Kinvara] is an evolution Images of the traditional running shoe towards a minimalist design. It looks like a traditional running shoe, but lowers the heel and reduces the weight. To me, shoes reviewed on this shoe is on the boundary between minimalist and traditional, though others might include some of site can be found in the [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp%3Ffrom%3DsearchBox%26Query%3DBrooks%2BPure Brooks Pure[Shoe Gallery]] range as minimalist. <br style="clear: both" />=Minimalist ShoesShoe Dissection =These are zero drop shoes with minimal cushioning, but they are not virtually barefoot. <br style="clear''Main article: both" /> ==Modified Nike Free==With modification, the [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NIK1530/?cc=WHVLT107 Nike Free 3.0] can provide a minimalist shoe with just enough cushioning to provide good protection. I prefer the [[Modified Nike FreeShoe Dissection]] to Vibram FiveFingers, as the small amount of extra padding protects my feet much better, while the flexibility gives a surprisingly similar experience. The longevity of the Modified Nike Free is good, lasting for 2,000+ miles.<br style="clear: both" /> ''==Saucony Hattori==[[File:HattoriSliceHokaOlympusSlice.JPG|none|thumb|x300px|The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/SCN984/ Hattori]A comparison between the Altra Olympus and Hokas.]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/SCN984/ Hattori] is a lightweight (4.4oz), zero drop shoe, but Ever wonder what the sole is less flexible than the Nike Free and the sock style upper limits the fit. Zappos has the [http://www.runningwarehouse.com/descpageMRS-SHTLCM2.html Hattori LC] which has laces instead inside of your shoe looks like? Take a sock upper. <br style="clear: both" /> ==New Balance Minimus==[[File:RMinimus.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NBA1522/ Road Minimus] .]]The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp%3Ffrom%3DsearchBox%26Query%3DMinimus Minimus] is a range look inside; I've cut many of minimal my shoes from New Balance that has created a lot of interest in the minimalist running community as the trail shoe was designed with the help of ultrarunner Anton Krupicka. There is a [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NBA1542/ Trail Minimus] and a [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/NBA1522/ Road Minimus] which share similar nameshalf to reveal their construction, but are rather different shoes. The Trail Minimus worked well for me on mild trails, but I prefer the [[Modified Nike Free]] to the road version. <br style="clear: both" /> ==Merrell Gloves==[[File:TrailGlove.jpg|none|thumb|200px|[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MRL1000/ Merrell Trail Glove].]]Merrell sells a [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MRL1000/ trail glove] and a [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/MRL1002/ road glove]. The trail glove has a thin forefoot plate and both are zero drop. <br style="clear: both" /> =Virtually Barefoot=If you want to get as close to barefoot as you can, the best option by far is the FiveFingerssee above. However it You can be tricky to get them to fit right if you have an unusual shaped foot, in which case consider the Vivo Barefoot.==Vibram FiveFingers==[[File:KSO.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The Vibram [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp%3Ffrom%3DsearchBox%26Query%3Dfivefingers FiveFinger] [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/VFF102/ KSO].]][http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp?isLoggedIn=&isClubMember=&from=searchBox&Query=FiveFingers+&x=0&y=0 Vibram FiveFingers] are popular Minimalist Running shoes. They are see a thin sole combined with just enough material to hold them to your foot and a separate pocket for each toe, hence the name FiveFingers. They were originally created for boating, not running, but they have become hugely popular. The FiveFinger soles generally last a long time, but the uppers can be prone to tearing. Getting FiveFingers that fit can be tricky depending on the shape of your foot, so they don't work for everyone. The [http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/products/VFF116/ Bilika LS] are slightly wider and have laces, which improves the fit for some.<br style="clear: both" /> ==Vivobarefoot==gallery at [[File:VivoOneM.jpg|none|thumb|200px|The their [http://www.zappos.com/vivobarefoot-one-m-navy-sulpher Vivobarefoot One M].Shoe Dissection]]Terra Plana make a range of thin soled shoes under the '[http://www.roadrunnersports.com/rrs/search/search-celebros.jsp%3Ffrom%3DsearchBox%26Query%3DVIVOBAREFOOT Vivo Barefoot]' name, such as their [http://www.zappos.com/vivobarefoot-one-m-navy-sulpher Vivobarefoot One M] , with a flexible but tough sole. I'd also strongly recommend well as in the [http://www.zappos.com/vivobarefoot-ra-black Vivobarefoot Ra], which is close to a dress detailed shoe, but remarkably comfortable. I got mine for a wedding and new wear them regularlyreviews. <br style="clear: both" />=The OutsoleFrankenshoes=To achieve a light weight with maximum cushioning, many shoes don't use a hard rubber outsole over the softer midsole. This can result in uneven wear patterns when the midsole erode away from around the patches of outsole. In the image below, the red arrows mark the soft midsole and the blue arrows mark the hard outsole, with the green arrow indicating an intermediate toughness material. 'Main article: [[File:MDMC Soles.jpg|none|thumb|500px|From left to right is the Torin, the Cursoris, the Virrata and the Bondi B.Frankenshoes]]=The Newton=Newton shoes focus on forefoot running by adding extra height to the forefoot of the shoe. I purchased a pair thinking they would move me closer to barefoot running. The result of the high forefoot is an unstable shoe. I believe the Newton takes a bad idea (the traditional running shoe) and makes it worse. You can get a better alternative to the Newton just by hacking the sole heel off an old pair of running shoes. (The Newton is mentioned in The 4 Hour Body as a shoe that is correlated with injuries.)=Adidas Boost Foam=The Adidas boost uses a new type of foam in the sole that has more bounce and is more resilient. Adidas demonstrates this extra bounce by dropping a steel ball on their new foam and EVA, the industry standard foam. Because of the extra energy return in their new foam the ball will bounce much higher than on EVA. However, when we run our feet do not bounce off the ground, but have a short period of sustained contact, often called the 'stance phase'. So when your foot lands, it seems that the boost foam would return the landing shock back up your leg rather than absorbing it, which is less than ideal. It would be good to see a study that looks at how the boost foam changes the stresses on knees and hips compared with a standard running shoe. Regardless of how the bounce impacts your running, the increased lifespan of the new foam is appealing. Having a shoe that lasts longer is obviously good, but Adidas also claim that the new foam is more consistent through most of its lifespan, rather than gradually decaying in the way EVA does. Adidas also claims that their new foam does not change characteristics in extreme temperatures like EVA does.

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