Reebok Crossfit Nano 2.0 [Shoe Review]

When I first tried on the Reebok Nano 2.0s they felt flat and wide just like I have started to want my shoes. They remind me of several others of my zero drop running shoes, just a bit more flashy with the Army ACU Camouflage.  They have a more anatomical last like many of the smaller companies shoes out there.

I love the Nano 2.0s for all thing cross training. They have worked great for every Crossfit WOD I’ve done in them. When I first tried them on I thought I wouldn’t like running in them because they feel a bit heavier than what I’m used to; but they worked great for up to at least 5km thus far. 

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Skora Running Form [Shoe Review] First Impression

@SkoraRunning immediately impresses. I had previously heard that the box the Forms are shipped in is exquisite; it is true. The box is closed with a magnet and is definitely a keeper.

They are a bit different from any minimal shoe I’ve tried. The leather upper makes this shoe look like a dress shoe. Honestly, without the red rubber sole it could pass as a dress shoe.

The leather doesn’t detract from running though and after multiple uses at Crossfit and other running days, the leather has broken in well. This shoe is going to replace my New Balance Minimus MT10 as my shorter distance road running shoe and I may even do some trail running with it.

Comment: What’s the most exquisite running shoe you’ve tried?

It has a bit more cushion than a shoe like the MT10 or the VIVOBAREFOOT Neo. It is a good mid point between the Altra Instinct and those other two. I think it could do well as a trail shoe here in Arizona, even with the rocks the shoe seems like it would protect pretty well, just have to watch for some of the rougher rocks.

The shoe feels very similar overall compared to the VIVOBAREFOOT, its very roomy and the anatomical lacing doesn’t bother the top of my foot.

There hasn’t been anything negative about the shoe yet, besides the fact that they are like a new car that you don’t want to scratch. I have scuffed them a bit at Crossfit, I will eventually get over the “Don’t get the new shoes dirty” feeling.

The shoe does feel light, but that is expected in the modern minimal shoe market. It weighs 8.2 ounces compared to the 7 ounce Merrell Trail Glove and 7.1 ounce MT10. I would have to say that the leather is probably what gives it the extra ounce, because both those other shoes use a mesh upper.

I have put them on sock less but have yet to run in them sock less. I don’t know if I trust my feet with leather. I like the latching system for the heel. I have played with a bit and like it just a tad tighter then how it comes stock.

Like the Salomon S-Lab sense, outside of the price ($185), these shoes are standouts in ever flooding minimal shoes market. I like them and wanna see how many miles I can get on them before the leather starts to wear or the outsole begins to give out.

Specs:

•  Heel-toe drop: 0mm
• Weight: 8.2 oz @ size 9
• Stack Height: 13mm Forefoot - 13mm Heel

Comment: What’s the most exquisite running shoe you’ve tried?

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Shoe Review Round-Up (Issue 4)

This is going to be my fourth shoe review round-up. I love reposting and sharing reviews of shoes to get new shoes out and let people know about the minmal shoe market. I’m going to keep each preview short so the overall post isn’t too long.

Comment: What’s your favorite out of this bunch?

Adidas adiPure Adapt

• @runblogger (ow.ly/cBNbp) - I’ve had the adidas Adapts since early this year, but will openly admit that I have not run in them very much. My reason is a rather silly one, but it’s one that I think is going to cause a lot of problems for this shoe: it’s really ugly.
• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMAlU) - Adidas adipure Adapt is for the select few who are in the advanced stages of the Natural Running routine. Specifications show a 9mm stack height and a 5mm forefoot height for a 4mm heel-to-toe drop.

Adidas adiPure Gazelle

• @runblogger (ow.ly/cBNbp) - Running Warehouse lists the the adidas Gazelle as a 6.0oz, 6mm drop shoe (stack height = 17mm heel, 11mm forefoot) that would seem to fit squarely in the transitional category.
• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMAlU) - Adidas adipure Gazelle is the next step for runners already following a  Natural Running routine. Specifications show a 16mm stack height and a 9mm forefoot height for a 7mm heel-to-toe drop.

Adidas adiPure Motion

• @runblogger (ow.ly/cBNbp) - According to Running Warehouse, the Motion is a 7.5oz, 8mm drop shoe (stack height = 23mm heel, 15mm forefoot) targeted as a first step toward less shoe. 
• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMAlU) - Designed for the runner looking to improve their midfoot running gait, this is the most traditional feeling shoe in the adipure range. But it still accommodates heel strikers and the beveled heel promotes mid-heel strike.j

Altra Zero Drop 3-Sum

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMHto) - With perforated insoles, midsoles, and outsoles, and drain holes for fast water discharge, these shoes never weigh you down. Ion-mask hydrophobic coating helps keep the shoes light, even when they’re wet, and innovative laces and holes help you quickly pull your shoes off and on.

Altra Zero Drop Instinct

• @vetrunnah (ow.ly/cBO6d) - My first impressions of the Altra Instinct’s was very positive. I am cautiously optimistic that these running shoes are part of the solution for my higher mileage running and will really be interested in seeing how they are at the 100 mile mark.
• @vetrunnah (ow.ly/cMFlz) - The Instincts still look boxy to me and as I said in my initial review of the Instinct’s, appearances are deceiving! They have a nice quick feel when running in them that promotes landing with more of a forefoot running style. 
• @Bintherun (ow.ly/cMHcg) - After 79 miles and counting, with about a dozen runs ranging from five to sixteen miles, I’ve developed a keen liking for the Altra. I have worn these shoes at the track as well as the road with great results.

Altra Zero Drop Instinct 1.5

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMHto) - Everything under foot is the same with a slight addition of spring at the toe to provide a faster feel. The upper has been redesigned with a new updated mesh and look.

Altra Zero Drop One

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMHto) - The ONE is a revolutionary lightweight racing shoe. Perfect for road running, The ONE is ready for anything – your next 5K or marathon.

Altra Zero Drop Superior

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMHto) - With a removable StoneGuard™ system and CheckerTrail sticky rubber outsole, The Superior trail shoe gives incredible protection and stability on loose dirt and rocks. A Zero Drop platform, foot-shaped design and 2-layer, A-Bound™ midsole promotes maximum foot relaxation, stability and speed. 

Body Glove 3T

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cBQfW) - The Body Glove 3T Barefoot minimalist shoe protects your foot, allows unparalleled dexterity for the toes that can be articulated, provides excellent grip on all surfaces and features their exclusive IDS (Integrated Drainage System) which allows water to drain through the sole and air to circulate when on land keeping your feet cool.

Brooks Pure Grit

• @runblogger (ow.ly/cMHlf) - As I so often do these days, I swapped in the insole from the Skechers Go Bionic and the fit improved dramatically to the point where the forefoot felt more than spacious enough for my taste, and the arch contour was markedly reduced. With the insole taken care of, the Grits feel awesome on my feet – super comfortable and no squeezing at all.

Columbia Liquifly

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMAw7) - I’m impressed by this super lightweight minimal trail shoe from Columbia. With a drop of 4mm and weighing 6.9 ounces, it has a breathable, water-draining mesh upper with protective synthetic overlays. Lateral and longitudinal flex grooves that allow for natural foot movement.

Leming Footwear Collection

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cBT8X) - Barely less than 8 months since Leming Footwear (formerly STEM Footwear) shoes hit the market, they have already sold over 7,000 pairs in over 40 countries. Here’s a sneak peek at 5 new styles for 2013, all built on a new 8mm LEMRubber™ air-infused sole.

Lizard Kross

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cBOJd) - Lizard’s Kross shoe is designed as an extension of the body, featuring a lightweight Vibram rubber outsole. The proprietary Kyodo Sole units promote natural barefoot posturing while a self-cleaning, multi-directional tread pattern ensures the best grip on rock, mud and wet surfaces. 

Merrell Barefoot Bare Access

• @runblogger (ow.ly/cBwXv) - The Bare Access scores big points with me for its fit. It’s one of those shoes that feels as if it were made just for my foot. 

Merrell Mix Master 2

• @runwiththehouse (ow.ly/cDPc2) - Go fast or faster, go trail or asphalt in the Merrell Mix Master 2 (Men’s) and Merrell Mix Master Glide (Women’s), a nimble shoe that’s trail tough and cushioned enough to handle the roads on the way to the trailhead.
• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMHMt) - I did not notice the 4mm drop and it does not affect my running gait. The fact that I still include it in my shoe rotation for trail running is testament to that.

Mizuno Wave Ekiden

• @runwiththehouse (ow.ly/cBRZg) - The Wave Ekiden comes to the US market for the first time after becoming a favorite among many runners overseas. This racing shoe slots in between the Universe and Ronin models, featuring a 6 mm heel to toe differential and a weight of just 4.6 oz.
• @runblogger (ow.ly/cDN0u) - I’ve long thought that Mizuno had a big gap in it’s offerings between the Universe and the Ronin/Musha lightweight trainer combo. This gap is soon to be filled by the Mizuno Wave Ekiden.

Mizuno Wave Evo Cursoris

• @runwiththehouse (ow.ly/cBAYA) - What to Watch For: Zero drop (18mm stack height as measured by Running Warehouse), 7.5 oz (Men’s) 6.2 oz (Women’s), Wider forefoot base to accommodate toe splay, Forefoot Wave technology to provide added spring on toe-off
• @runblogger (ow.ly/cBK0e) - I’m pleased to see Mizuno increasing it’s variety of offerings at the more minimal end of the shoe scale. I was recently invited to join the Mizuno Mezamashii Project and this included a pair of free shoes, and the only shoe in the current catalogue that matches my tastes is the Wave Universe (though it’s a great one!).

Mizuno Wave Evo Levitas

• @runwiththehouse (ow.ly/cBAYA) - What to Watch For: Zero drop (15mm stack height as measured by Running Warehouse), 6.5 oz (Men’s) 5.2 oz (Women’s), Wide forefoot with narrower midfoot to maintain low weight, Forefoot Wave technology to provide added spring on toe-off.
• @runblogger (ow.ly/cBK0e) - I’ve run in both the Ronin and Musha and though they are both solid choices in the transitional lightweight trainer/racer category, I find them a bit too much shoe for my taste. Had either the Levitas or Cursoris been available I would have jumped on them right away!

Montrail FluidFlex

• @runwiththehouse (ow.ly/cBMKv) - Wouldn’t it be nice to tie on a trail shoe that gives you a connected feel for the ground but also offers a good amount of protection from trail hazards and a bit of cushioning to keep you comfortable mile after mile? That’s the exact design spec for the new Montrail FluidFlex.

New Balance Minimus 80 Multisport

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMFsm) - The Minimus 80 Multisport is a barefoot-inspired multi-sport shoe designed for the athlete who needs enough cushioning underfoot to endure a full day of adventure in the outdoors. The Minimus 80 with a 4mm drop will launch in January 2013.

New Balance Minimus MR10v2

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMFsm) - The Minimus 10v2 retains the 4mm drop and is designed for road runner but changes include the addition of a Vibram designed outsole and a modified upper, bringing the Minimus 10v2 more closely in-line with other shoes in the Minimus collection. Available March 2013.

New Balance Minimus MT10v2

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMFsm) - Updates to the Minimus 10v2 Trail are minimal, addressing specific areas of concern. The first of those was a change to the forefoot band with a more traditional synthetic replacing a less forgiving rubber, enabling the band to provide necessary support without completely restricting the foot.

New Balance Minimus MX20v2

• @minimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMFsm) - The 4mm drop Minimus 20v3 Training shoe is ideal for cross-functional workouts like Cross Fit. It offers a low profile, stable REVlite platform, with reduced midsole/outsole heights in the heel (12mm), to enhance an athlete’s ground feel and to allow for optimum power generation during a workout. 

New Balance RC5000

• @runglogger  (ow.ly/cBwpm) - I was pleasantly surprised by how it fit – plenty of room up in the toebox, reasonably comparable to the Mizuno Universe in this regard. The sole felt distinctly softer than that of the Mizunos.

Nike Free 4.0 v2

• @vetrunnah (ow.ly/cDPqM) - However, if you are primarily a paved surface runner, who doesn’t mind picking a few small rocks out the soles of your shoe every so often or run on a treadmill, the Nike Free 4.0 v2 is a great shoe. It is extremely comfortable, good-looking, light, is a “fast” shoe and I recommend it highly. 

Puma evoSPEED Collection

• @minaimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cBLRT) - Designed under the criteria of “light, flex, and fit”, all evoSPEED footwear features lightweight materials, increased flexibility and an optimized fit that enables a greater freedom of movement without compromising support, to enhance speed.

Puma evoSPEED Runner

• @minaimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMI35) - The shoe looks bulky on the outside but putting it on and being sockless, the evoSPEED Runner is super comfortable! And it has a wide toe box to boot. On asphalt and concrete, it is a great training shoe and especially for long distances. 

Salomon S-Lab Sense Ultra

• I will be buying this shoe! I love the black and red. I already love the heck out of my Sense that I have right now.
• @minaimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMF2V) - Pricing is much better than the original $200 for the Sense. It has the company’s new EndoFit technology for precision fit and ProFeel Film for forefront rock protection.

Salomon Sense Mantra

• @minaimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMF2V) - With a 6-millimeter drop, It has the company’s new EndoFit technology for precision fit and ProFeel Film for forefront rock protection.

Saucony Hattori LC

• @Runblogger (ow.ly/cMGzD) - Let me start by saying that the shoes feel fantastic on my feet, one of the most comfortable shoes I have worn. This alone makes them a keeper for me.

Saucony Kinvara 2

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cBKGi) - Overall I’d give the Saucony Kinvara 2 high marks and definitely would be interested in owning another pair. Do to the lack of toe room in the pair I have I’d probably limit how far I’d run in them.

Saucony Kinvara TR

• I bought a pair of these. I like them with my VIVOBAREFOOT insoles. It gives the shoe enough width and room for me. We’ll see  how they stack up against the Mix Master and the Salomon S-Lab Sense.
• @Runblogger (ow.ly/cBPE4) - I have a pair of Kinvara trails on order from RW that should arrive within the next few days, and I’ll try to get a first impressions post up later this week.
• @Runblogger (ow.ly/cDO7u) - This morning I took out a few shoes to compare it too, and shot a few side-by-side photos. The comparisons are between the Kinvara TR, Kinvara 3, Brooks Pure Grit, and Merrell Mix Master 2.

Skechers GO Race

• @Runblogger (ow.ly/cDQdw) - I was lucky enough last week to receive a wear test pair of Meb’s Go Race, and have run a 12 miler and a 7 miler in them. Feels great, kind of like a lower drop, better fitting (at least on my feet) version of the Adidas Adios 2, which will surely be a shoe on the feet of many of Meb’s competitors in London.

Skora Core

• @minaimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMGrM) - SKORA CORE features a perforated Pittards® Armor-Tan® Goatskin leather upper, a combination lining with WR100X® leather and antibacterial Agion mesh, and an asymmetric lacing system. With a unibody IBR outsole, CORE offers incredibly supple road feel, and superior anatomical fit.

Skora Phase

• @minaimalistrunnr (ow.ly/cMGrM) - SKORA PHASE is constructed using the latest lamination techniques, with a minimal single-layer mesh upper and laminated reflective details. With an asymmetric lacing system, and a unique unibody IBR outsole, PHASE provides barely-there performance and lightweight responsiveness. 

Tune Ornament Loafer

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMABA) - Personally, I am incredibly excited that Tune is bringing these loafers to market. There is a gaping hole in the minimalist dress shoe market and I think Mike’s products here could be just what we need to restore comfortable feet to the (often stuffy) workplace! I think Mike has his ducks in a row in how he’s approached the design of the Trues and, really, just looking at them I have to say they look incredibly comfortable.

Vibram FiveFingers Alitza

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMFUv) - Built for today’s active lifestyle, the Alitza is a cool, casual crossover, providing a fashionable look for everyday urban activities. The transparent mesh upper is soft and comfortable against the skin, while the elastic straps ranging across the instep enhance style, comfort and fit during fitness activities.

Vibram FiveFingers EI-X

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMFUv) - The EL-X is a thin, breathable and lightweight shoe perfect for low impact and light fitness activities. Our 3mm TC-1 rubber outsole provides slip resistance and great ground feedback while the EVA insole provides plating protection and comfort.

Vibram FiveFingers Entrada

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMFUv) - A sleek take on our original classic, the Entrada is the perfect choice for those seeking a minimalist option. Built for light fitness activities and casual use, this shoe uses an intricately designed 3.5mm TC-1 rubber outsole.

Vibram FiveFingers Maiori

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMFUv) - The Maiori is an update to our popular water sports model, the Flow. Suited for more intense water activities and with added ankle protection, the Maiori performs in the toughest water sports environments.

Vibram FiveFingers Signa

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMFUv) - Whether kayaking, surfing, paddle boarding or simply walking the rocky shores all summer, the FiveFingers Signa is the shoe for you. The segmented Coral outsole made of Vibram performance rubber ensures ultimate grip and protection in the water and allows natural foot flexion when swimming.

Vibram FiveFingers Sorrento

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMFUv) - Great for traveling, light walking or casual wear, the Sorrento is an ideal choice for the FiveFingers® enthusiast who wants to enjoy a barefoot experience while relaxing. The leather upper is perforated for breathability and has an elastic gore at the topline for a secure fit.

Vibram FiveFingers Treksport Sandal

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cMFUv) - Breathable but protective, the TrekSport Sandal is the perfect shoe for your weekend excursion. The lightly cleated 4mm Trek outsole made with Vibram TC-1 Dura rubber delivers increased traction on a variety of surfaces.

VIVOBAREFOOT Aqua Lite

• @bdayshoes (ow.ly/cDNkZ) - Overall, if you’re after a good-looking shoe that has everyday versatility, top-notch ground feel, and allows you to preserve your natural bio-mechanics, posture, and “barefoot” movement, the Vivo Barefoot Aqua Lite is worth your serious consideration. My only gripe with it is that I wish it had a more svelte interior; however, this is a gripe that comes with having tested a hundred plus minimalist shoes and is in no way a dealbreaker.

Comment: What’s your favorite out of this bunch?

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VIVOBAREFOOT Neo Trail [Shoe Review]

By @JABridgeforth,

I have used about 8 pairs of shoes, two of those shoes being trail shoes. I would say these are my best all-around trail shoes. They have a great sole that makes running on rocks or hard surfaces much easier. Just like my other Vivobarefoot shoes, they have a Zero Drop from heel to toe. These are probably my second or third favorite shoe that I have.

I run in these shoes only on trails, because these shoes, I think, would wear out too fast on the road. If I know that the trail is going to be a hard rocky trail I will run in these over my New Balance MT10.  My Neo Trail is definitely my go to trail shoe.

Comment: Have you tried a zero drop shoe?

I would give this a 9 out of 10 for a trail shoe because there is a few things they could do to make it better, but it definitely is one of the best trail shoes out there, I believe. It’s not really a specialized trail shoe, designed for a specific type of trail, which is something I like because then I can wear it just about on any trail and my feet will not get torn up. I just would not recommend this shoe for the road at all, unless it’s a short amount of distance (.25-.5 miles).

I have a put about 57 miles on these shoes. I generally will run with this shoe anytime I run on a trail. I have put a majority of those miles while running at Mission Trails, San Diego.

I have liked this shoe since the day I got it. I remember going for a run around a lake and just loved it. I did notice the zero drop, which I loved. I actually ran my first trail race in these. By the way, I got 4^th place in that race. I haven’t ran in these shoes that recently, but that’s because I normally just run around my neighborhood, which means a lot of road running. The only thing I’ve noticed is that the toe box is a little skinny but that’s probably because it’s a trail shoe. This is favorite shoe of mine. It has a zero drop from heel to toe.

I would compare this shoe, well, to my only other trail shoe the New Balance MT10. I love my MT10’s as well. They are both good for trails. The MT10 feels lighter on the foot and with less protection than the Neo Trail, which makes for a great shoe to run on softer trails. Whereas, the Neo Trail is better for hard rocky trails. Both are great shoes.

The look is very neutral. The colors of the shoe definitely go together. I’m not a fan of big bright colored shoes; however I do like them, so this is why I like the colors of the shoe. The way the shoe is designed in the upper makes for a perfect fit.

I would compare the looks of this shoe to my other Vivobarefoot shoes. My Vivobarefoot Neo are a black and white shoe. It’s a very simple design with very simple colors. Both the Neo Trail and Neo have a very simple color and look to them, which is one reason I like them both.

They are super comfortable. There is not cushion in weird places. These shoes are something that I could wear for hours.

I have never got any blisters or had any other major issues with these shoes. They seem to fit pretty well. Sometimes my big toe gets a little bit sore but I think that might be because I just have a huge big toe.

A lot of other reviewers seem to really this shoe. They love the fact that it was specifically designed for trails.

The outsole is quite interesting. I had never seen anything like it before I got this shoe. It’s got 4.5mm lugs/spikes all around on the bottom of the shoe. This design really does help on the trail.

This outsole was designed specifically to run on the trail. It is a great design. This design is something that I have not seen on other trail shoes. The outsole makes running on small rocks much easier.

Specs

• Heel-toe drop – 0mm (Zero Drop)
• Weight – 9.2oz
• Stack height – 7mm

It feels great and is does what it was exactly designed and said to do.

This is my overall favorite trail. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a great minimal/barefoot trail shoe. It is a very protective shoe but still provides that barefoot feel. I would say it is one of the best trail shoes out there on the market.

Comment: Have you tried a zero drop shoe?

You can find Joseph Bridgeforth on his Daily Mile, Twitter, and Blog.

Daily Mile: dailymile.com/people/JABridgeforth

Twitter: twitter.com/JABridgeforth

Blog: ittakessomeone.blogspot.com

If you like the post; like or reblog it on Tumblr, pass it around on Facebook, or Tweet it on Twitter.

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Shoe Review Round-Up (Issue 2)

This is going to be my second bi-monthly shoe review round-up. I love reposting and sharing reviews of shoes to get new shoes out and let people know about the minmal shoe market.

Altra Zero Drop Delilah

• @minimalistrunnr (bit.ly/Ii4Ltk) - Her first impression were similar to mine. The outsole felt a little stiffer than the Intuition but has less cushioning (with the removable insole intact). She had no problem running in them and they felt fine (with less stack height) now that she strengthened her arch and feet. With no changes in running gait. But an old nagging stress fracture comes and go when she put in longer runs. This is more prominent on asphalt than on non-technical trails.

Altra Zero Drop Samson

• @minimalistrunnr (bit.ly/Ii4Ltk) - The Samson weight in at 8.2 ounces (US Size 10.0) and has a stack height of 10mm. If you remove the insole, you only about 7mm from the ground. All Altra shoes are zero drop – 0mm heel-to-toe differential. The Samson weighs about 1.5 ounces more than The Adam. The uppers is made of a quick-dry mesh but it felt rougher but definitely more durable than the Adam stretch fabric.

BodyGlove 3T Barefoot

• @bdayshoes (bit.ly/Ii2oa7) - I only briefly ran in the Barefoot 3Ts and what I can say is that the experience is similarly “barefoot”-like to running in FiveFingers. The lack of toe articulation on the smallest toes makes the 3Ts feel a little less locked on to your foot on the lateral edges of your feet, but did not detract much, if at all, from the toed experience.

Luna Sandals Catamount

• @bdayshoes (bit.ly/Ii4fvy) - the Luna Catamount, the sole is a combination of Cordovan leather and a 4mm Vibram rubber sole. The base configuration of the Catamount comes with an option of quarter-inch leather laces, 3/8” “Leadville Black” laces (what I picked), or braided hemp.

Merrell Barefoot Dash Glove

• @runblogger (bit.ly/Ii5R8p) - The thicker Vibram sole of the Pace Glove made running on pavement comfortable. I didn’t have any problems with the lack of cushion, and have been able to run up to 13 miles in them with no rubbing or hot spots. The shoes were fun for me, and I enjoyed putting them on as a treat for my running feet.

Merrell Barefoot Edge Glove

• @runblogger (bit.ly/Ii2Vc1) - The Merrell Edge Glove is a relatively new offering in the Merrell Barefoot collection. Made of suede leather, the Edge Glove is a bit more casual than the Tough Glove. Like the Tough Glove, it is both zero drop and flexible, and offers a very roomy fit.

Merrell Barefoot Pace Glove

• @runblogger (bit.ly/Ii5R8p) - Since this is a trail shoe there is more a prominent tread. Just along the tip of the toe line it is raised slightly more than the rest of the tread. This was most noticeable to me when I took the shoe out for the first time, running pavement to get to the trail. It didn’t feel bad, it just felt different.

Merrell Barefoot Tough Glove

• @runblogger (bit.ly/Ii2Vc1) - From an appearance standpoint, the Merrell Tough Glove is my favorite of the four shoes reviewed here – it’s a really nice looking shoe. They are made of full-grain leather and are nice enough that I can wear them with a sport coat, and have done so at admissions events where I have to present to large groups of prospective students and parents. 

New Balance Minimus MR00

• @runblogger (bit.ly/Ii4y9v) - I’ve grown to really like the New Balance Minimus Road Zeros. Given my experience with this shoe so far, I’ve found it to be a rather versatile road shoe. It works well for speed, and it handles distance nicely as well.

Newton Gravity

• @vetrunnah (bit.ly/Ii3YbZ) - The Gravity has Newton’s patented Action/Reaction Technology™, does help me “feel” the difference when I am running with a proper landing versus when I am are landing on my heel. The running action does not feel as comfortable or as efficient when I don’t land properly.

Nike Free 3.0 v4

• @runblogger (bit.ly/JkUlIM) - The sole is 4mm drop (21mm heel, 17mm forefoot), and shoe weight is just a bit over 7oz with the insole removed. Gaps in the sole are much narrower than in previous versions which should help to prevent rock and stick collection in the gaps.

Rockport truWALK Zero

• @minimalistrunnr (bit.ly/Ii5jzv) - On April 5, Rockport launched its revolutionary new truWALK Zero footwear for men and women, featuring super-lightweight, flexible technology. truWALK Zero is the culmination of years of research and testing, making it one of the lightest shoes that Rockport has ever designed. They’ll make you feel like you’re walking on air!

Saucony Kinvara 3

• @binthrun (bit.ly/Ii3K4v) - Overall, while running the shoes are light, flexible, and comfortable. The Kinvara 3 maintain much of the feel of the last two models of Kinvara. If you loved Kinvara 1 and 2, you will love Kinvara 3. If you are like me and liked Kinvara 1 and 2 but couldn’t justify the quick demise of the sole, you will love Kinvara 3. 

Salomon S-Lab Sense

• @bikernate (bit.ly/JkTZBV) - I was surprised to find out how well the carbon fiber rock plate worked.  The shoes have more protection than my usual New Balance MT110’s and more cushioning as well.  I think it would make an excellent 100 mile shoe. 
• @alexbridgeforth (bit.ly/Ii3suC) - The Sense do a really good job at protecting you feet, however the only thing I did notice is the the EVA foam on the outside arch did get a few battle scars, but that is expected with a tech-trail shoe. The upper took a beating. Honestly, I was extremely surprised that I didn’t tear the upper at all. I was really rough on them for a first run. 

SKORA Running FORM

• @timkellydotnet (bit.ly/JkUGLs) - I preferred the FORM over the BASE since I felt like I could get a tighter fit with the laces. I never experienced any blistering or hotspots while wearing socks or even going sockless. As I’ve mentioned, I prefer a thinner sole on my running shoes so I ended up taking out the removable insole.
• @bdayshoes (bit.ly/Ii5tH5) - SKORA’s tagline is “Run Real” as the company goes on to explain in their marketing material, “We reject the terms “minimal”, “natural”, or “barefoot-style” when it comes to running. We believe there is only one way to run that respects our bodies—simply put, it is Real Running. Nothing more, nothing less. 

VIVOBAREFOOT Aqua

• @runblogger (bit.ly/Ii2Vc1) - The Vivobarefoot Aqua is hands down the most comfortable of all of the zero drop shoes that I wear to work. The sole is ultraflexible, the toebox is expansive, and they honestly feel like a broken-in pair of slippers. 

VIVOBAREFOOT Neo

• @runblogger (bit.ly/Ii2Vc1) - Several months ago Vivobarefoot released an airmesh version of the Neo, and I purchased a pair in the olive color shown above. This is definitely a casual shoe and not one you would wear on a dressier occasion, but it works fine for my work environment where I am often hanging out in a lab filled with dead animals.

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