Minimalist shoes are lighter and more flexible than general training / running shoes. We had previously called this category 'Performance Shoes' as many of the features are similar. They are particularly suitable for faster paced running sessions and possibly racing as well. All good right? The trade off is in protection and durability. There will be less cushioning and you can run less miles than in a training shoe. However, the feel is nicer with a softer, more plush response to striking the ground.
Additionally Minimalist shoes have focused on moving more cushioning to under the forefoot along with a reduction in the heel / toe drop. This refers to the depth of the midsole below the heel and below the ball of the foot. A drop / difference of up to 4mm is considered to allow a shoe to be in the minimalist category. We have tried to include this figure on the product description where it's provided by the manufacturer. These shoes also go some way towards helping runners adopt a more natural running technique. The barefoot running technique (striking the ground with the ball of your foot rather than your heel) is also easier to achieve in this sort of shoe as the reduced midsole height beneath the heel (the heel cushioning) allows and slightly encourages this technique.
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Adidas Adizero Tempo 4 M Shoes
The lightest shoe in its class, it gives you everything you need, nothing you don't. Pure and simple in appearance and function, this is the ultimate lightweight stab...» more
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Brooks Green Silence
The GREEN SILENCE is a lightweight trainer that's made with your running and the environment in mind. it's the first shoe to be created from 75% recycled materials and will bio...» more
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Brooks Launch
Lightweight performance orientated shoe with an incredibly flexible outsole which helps provide a seamless transition during every stride of your run. Add to that the lower-profile mi...» more
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• Weight (UK 8): 180g/ 6.4 oz
• Fit: Performance
• Upper: Synthetic, TPU
• Lining: Mesh
• Footbed: 3mm
• Midsole: Eva
• Shoc-Zone™:
• Differential / Heel Toe drop: 0mm
• Sole: Bare-X™
• Compo...» more
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K-Swiss Blade-Light Run
Given Editor's choice in Triathlon 220 (September 2010 issue)
Triathlon 220 states that: 'The Blade-Light run has a simple construction with a deeply cushioned outsole that...» more
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Ultra-light and stable running and racing shoe perfect for fast days. races and triathlons.
• Durability is achieved with an Aosta® II rubber outsole.
• Flexibility is enhanced by anatomically c...» more
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Ultra-light and stable running and racing shoe perfect for fast days. races and triathlons.
• Durability is achieved with an Aosta® II rubber outsole.
• Flexibility is enhanced by anatomically c...» more
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K-Swiss Kwicky Blade Light
Welcome to an innovative ultra light-weight running shoe featuring Blade-Light technology.
The Y-beam mid-foot support structure anchors the arch area of the foot with...» more
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Men's Newton Cushion Trainer
The updated version has increased durability in the heel, a high-rebound midsole compound and improved fit in the upper.
Designed for the biomechanically efficient run...» more
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Newton Stability Trainer (Motion)
The men's Newton Stability Trainer / Motion running shoes have been updated version to make this top of the range performance trainer even better. With the stretch...» more
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A neutral guidance trainer designed for runners committed to changing their running form to a midfoot / forefoot running style.
Newton Running, the Boulder, Colorado running shoe company, will laun...» more
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Newton Sir Isaac Stability Guidance Trainer
The Sir Isaac stability guidance trainer is designed for runners of all levels, including beginners, who are committed to Natural Running and need medial p...» more
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Nike Free Run+ 2
Breathable mesh upper with stitchless overlays for comfort
Nike Free for more natural movement and an extraordinary feel
Sculpted Phylon midsole geometry for increased cushioning...» more
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Nike Free Run+ 2
• Breathable mesh upper with stitchless overlays for comfort
• Nike Free for more natural movement and an extraordinary feel
• Sculpted Phylon midsole geometry for increased cush...» more
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Nike Lunar Elite+ 2
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Triathlete Europe magazine (August 2011) says "Testers appreciated the midsole cushioning and found the shoe was stable without any noticeable motion control interfe...» more
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Nike Lunar Elite+ 2 (grey + lime)
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Triathlete Europe magazine (August 2011) says "Testers appreciated the midsole cushioning and found the shoe was stable without any noticeable motion c...» more
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Nike LunarElite+ 2 (grey/red)
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Triathlete Europe magazine (August 2011) says "Testers appreciated the midsole cushioning and found the shoe was stable without any noticeable motion contr...» more
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Saucony Fastwitch 5
The Fastwitch has become an industry standard against which other racing shoes are judged. Version 5 adds more features and protection to the shoe, but does not add any addition...» more
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Saucony Fastwitch 5
The Fastwitch is a shoe that crosses the boundary between lightweight trainer and more protective racer. Version 5 adds more features and protection to the shoe, but does not ad...» more
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Saucony Hattori
Saucony's first Zero drop running shoe
Amongst the Saucony shoe range for Summer and Autumn 2011, Hattori is the most minimal. Hattori features a 10 mm height and 4.5 oz weight for...» more
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