12 best minimalist running shoes
Minimalist running shoes are a type of footwear designed to provide a more natural and barefoot-like running experience.These shoes are characterized by their lightweight, flexible, and low-profile design, which aims to mimic the feeling of running barefoot while still offering some protection and support. Here are some key features and benefits of minimalist running shoes:
Minimal Cushioning: Minimalist shoes typically have thinner soles with minimal cushioning. This encourages a more natural foot strike and allows the runner to feel the ground beneath them.
Lower Heel-to-Toe Drop: One of the defining features of minimalist shoes is their lower heel-to-toe drop (or "heel drop"). Traditional running shoes often have a significant heel elevation, while minimalist shoes aim for a more level platform, promoting a midfoot or forefoot strike.
Lightweight Design: Minimalist shoes are designed to be lightweight, reducing the overall weight of the shoe and allowing for a more efficient running gait.
Flexibility: These shoes are often more flexible, allowing the foot to move and bend naturally, which can help strengthen the muscles in the feet and lower legs.
Improved Sensation: With thinner soles and less cushioning, minimalist shoes provide a greater sensory connection between the foot and the ground, helping runners become more aware of their stride and form.
Transition Period: Transitioning to minimalist running shoes should be done gradually to allow your feet and muscles to adapt to the new style of running. Overuse injuries can occur if you switch too quickly from traditional shoes.
Strengthening Benefits: Many proponents of minimalist running believe that it can help strengthen the feet, improve balance, and reduce the risk of certain running-related injuries.
It's important to note that minimalist running shoes may not be suitable for everyone, and their use should be based on individual preferences and running goals. Some runners find them comfortable and beneficial, while others may prefer the cushioning and support of traditional running shoes, especially for longer distances or specific running conditions.
When considering minimalist running shoes, it's essential to consult with a knowledgeable running shoe specialist or podiatrist to determine if they are a good fit for your running style and biomechanics. Additionally, it's important to choose a shoe that matches your specific needs and preferences, whether you're a woman or a man, and take the time to transition gradually if you decide to make the switch to minimalist footwear.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best minimalist running shoes on the marketProduct description
Trendsetters looking for a kick that wins at both style and comfort will appreciate the New Balance FuelCore Nergize lifestyle shoe. Practical and stylish, these sneakers have a sleek, easy-to-wear bootie-style upper that hugs your foot to provide a snug and supportive fit while also adding a stylish finish to your look. Designed for comfort as much as style, these everyday running shoes boast a REVlite midsole that offers lightweight cushioning for a more responsive ride, and an NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert that offers a plush feel with every step – making them ideal for all-day wear. The synthetic material also provides a lightweight fit and feel to raise your comfort levels whether you're running errands, exploring the city or hitting your favorite hangout spot. This modern sneaker from New Balance is available in a range of color options to complement any wardrobe for effortless styling.
- 100% Synthetic
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Midsole Cushioning: These New Balance sneakers feature a REVlite midsole that delivers incredibly lightweight cushioning and provides a responsive ride for comfortable all-day wear
- Underfoot Comfort: With an NB Memory Sole Comfort Insert that offers a plush feel with every step, this everyday shoe for women was made for wearing anywhere and everywhere
- Sleek Design and Supportive Fit: Stay comfortable and stylish as you go about your day with the contemporary bootie design. The bootie upper construction hugs your foot for a snug, supportive fit
- Lightweight Feel: The modern, eye-catching upper on these cross-trainers uses mesh and synthetic materials for a super-lightweight feel that helps keep you light on your feet
- Find Your Ideal Style: The FuelCore Nergize sneaker is available in a range of colors to suit your personal taste and preferences for easy, no-fuss styling you can dress up or down with ease
User questions & answers
Question: | I have a high arch. Are these shoes good for that |
Answer: | These do have a defined arch along with a memory foam cushion. I have a medium high arch and find these shoes to be very comfortable. Hopefully, you will have the same experience! |
Question: | are these running shoes or training |
Answer: | These are not my go to running shoes. I wear them for work and could see wearing them for training. |
Question: | how wide is the toe box |
Answer: | They sort of run small so even with the wide, you may want to go up a half size. I normally wear a 6 1/2 W or 7 reg. I have the 7 wide and my toes are at the tip of the shoes. They do allow more flex in the width, so they feel better then some. I have bunions on both sides of both feel but one that is particularly bad and these work decently for 12 be shifts in a hospital. |
Question: | Are these shoes good for walking |
Answer: | I wear them for walking - usually 3+ miles per day. I have high arches and plantar fasciitis but after 5 weeks - no problems! |
Product description
Created by studying the foot in motion, this trainer is designed to enhance the foot’s natural ability to stabilize the body during rapid changes in movement.
- Textile and Synthetic
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Vibram TC5+
- Merrell Barefoot 2 construction for enhanced proprioception and stability during variable movement
User questions & answers
Question: | Again, re color-I see you “choose the color tab” but the previous q was good bc the “red” color tab has NO red in the shoe- it is all blue. advise |
Answer: | Hi, so the color is not Red. It is more of a Coral. The front part of the sole is the Coral color, and there is also accent to the darker blue part of the sole/shoe with the Coral. The Merrill Logo at the back of the shoe is coral. The combination of light lighter blue and darker blue and Coral is quite nice. I get so many compliments on the shoe. Love love them. They are light, well made, comfy, and FUN. |
Question: | What’s the stack height on these shoes |
Answer: | Stack height of the trail glove 5 is 11.5 mm as was the trail glove 4. Trail glove 3 was 10.5 mm |
Question: | Is this a zero drop shoe. Is there cushioning |
Answer: | Hi. This feels very much like a zero drop shoe (which is one of the reasons I got it). And yes, I can feel cushioning. I walk a lot in the city and I need “barefoot” type of footwear that can also provide support and cushioning due to all the pavement-walking. I hope that helps. |
Question: | These say m us? M mean men’s |
Answer: | No it means Medium width. For me they fit well. I have a wider foot so I always go up one 1/2 size to ensure a wide enough fit |
Product features
BAREFOOT
Barefoot shape with a glove-like fit providing natural comfort with minimalist construction. Zero drop from heel to toe for a natural stride.
VEGAN FRIENDLY
Feel Good. Look Good. Our vegan friendly footwear uses 0% animal products.
VIBRAM
High-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability and slip resistance providing confidence on your feet.
Recycled Materials
Repurposing the old to make a better new.
Water Conservation
Every drop counts so we believe in the responsibility to use water thoughtfully.
Durability
Creating products that hold up to extensive wear.
Waste Not
Reducing landfill contribution through recycling, efficiencies, and innovation.
- Rubber sole
User questions & answers
Question: | Are there toe dividers (like my toe socks where each toe is separated) in the toe box of this shoe? Tell me what shoe has this |
Answer: | Yes, there are separate spaces for each toe. |
Question: | What if my feet are wide ? Will these be too narrow |
Answer: | I sometimes buy wide shoes, sometimes regular, at all depends on the shoes but I assume my feet are wider than average. These fit great and I have no problem with them not being wide enough. I have never needed a wide version of vibrams. |
Question: | Should they be snug or should there be room in the toes? i just purchased the vibram kso evo in size 42. it doesn't quite have that eco skelton feel |
Answer: | On your longest toe *usually big toe or middle* it should have at most the slightest bit of play. If you're like me. one will be snug and the other a little looser. That's because a lot of people's feet are different sizes. If one of them is snug then that's the right size. I wear 11.5 and got the 45. |
Question: | would you recommend using on reef or in the ocean |
Answer: | in the ocean sure, im not sure if on reef, cause ive never been diving, although I could imagine it as an extension of a wet suit. |
Product features
XS TREK Sole
Vibram XS TREK is a technical compound that allows great overall performance qualities, in particular flexibility and wet traction.
Details
- Weight: W38= 3,5 oz / 99gr ; M43= 4,9oz / 139gr
- Sole Spec: Insole: 2 mm EVA + Drylex sockliner Outsole: 3mm rubber Compound: Vibram XS Trek
- Upper Material: Polyester Mesh material PU film protection and reinforcement
- Fast lacing
- Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry
XS TREK Compound
- Optimal balance of traction and durability
- Responsive on unpredictable terrain
- Engineered for stability and comfort
Our Vision & Mission
VIBRAM creates innovative performance products that inspire people to experience the world. VIBRAM has a great vision: maintaining and strengthening its market leadership by offering reliable, high quality and high performance products for people who lead active lives. This mission has stayed the same over the years – Innovation, performance and quality – so that the company always lives up to its brand tradition. VIBRAM creates the best soles in the world.
- Synthetic-and-mesh
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- THIS SHOE IS FOR: Runners who need a perfect blend of support, cushion, flexibility, and reliability. The modernized, streamlined design satisfies runners who crave a low-profile look.
- SUPPORT AND CUSHION: Provides just the right amount of stability and support, great for overpronation while providing high energizing cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Adrenaline GTS 19
- BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING: The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride.
- MODERNIZED FIT: A new streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for-without excess bulk.
- GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: We've shifted our focus beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees. GuideRails keep you moving comfortably by keeping excess movement in check.
User questions & answers
Question: | Does the size for adrenaline gts 20 match sizes for adrenaline gts |
Answer: | I have never owned a pair of adrenaline GTS 18. But, the Adrenaline GTS 20 fits me perfectly for my regular size which is 9 1/2 D. I would argue that the benchmark is the actual size of your foot when buying the shoe. These are a pair of the best running shoes I’ve ever owned. Furthermore, it would seem to me logistically it would not change the design of how the shoe fits from one model to the next numerically. Adrenaline is adrenaline and that it just may have some updated features. That’s my opinion. Good luck… |
Question: | Is the "x-wide" in the size chart equivalent to 2e sizing? i have a pair of 2019's in 2e and want the exact same size |
Answer: | Wide = 2e X-Wide = 4e |
Question: | black/grey and black/ebony models seem to be reversed on this site. does anyone have experience with these colors |
Answer: | I ordered black/white and got black/grey/ebony?! |
Question: | Is this 15 medium D ?? Size inside |
Answer: | Yes, I ordered 9.5 and if there is no identifier like “w”, etc., it’s medium width “D” , These are great running shoes! |
Product features
BALANCED, SOFT CUSHIONING
The DNA LOFT Crash Pad cushions each footfall and works with BioMoGo DNA to adapt to your every stride.
MODERNIZED FIT
A new streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers the structure and proven fit the Adrenaline is known for — without excess bulk.
GUIDERAILS HOLISTIC SUPPORT SYSTEM
We’ve shifted our focus beyond the feet to the most injury-prone part of a runner’s body: the knees. GuideRails keep you moving comfortably by keeping excess movement in check.
CUSHION
Cushioned experience is soft and protective.
Level 1 - Minimal Cushion - Recommended for the runner looking for a softer run without too much cushion.
Level 2 - Medium Cushion - Recommended for the runner looking for a soft run with cushion.
Level 3 - High Cushion - Recommended for the runner looking for a very soft and protective cushion.
ENERGIZE
Energized experience is responsive and springy, adding extra lift to your stride!
Level 1 - Minimal Energize - Recommended for the runner looking for minimal spring in their stride without feeling damp.
Level 2 - Medium Energize - Recommended for the runner looking for a springy and responsive feeling stride.
Level 3 - High Energize - Recommended for the runner looking for a very springy and responsive stride.
SPEED
Speed experience is lightweight, fast and streamlined, adding extra speed to your stride!
Level 1 - Minimal Speed - Recommended for the runner looking for speed in their stride with minimal cushion.
Level 2 - Medium Speed - Recommended for the runner looking for a fast and responsive feeling stride.
Level 3 - High Speed - Recommended for the runner looking for the lightest weight and most responsive feeling stride.
CONNECT
Connected experience is lightweight and flexible to naturally feel your run!
Level 1 - Minimal Connect - Recommended for more natural feeling run with a little cushion.
Level 2 - Medium Connect - Recommended for the runner looking for natural feeling run and lightweight shoe.
Level 3 - High Connect - Recommended for the runner looking to feel connected to every stride for a very natural feeling run
Product description
Barefoot shoe
- 100% Mesh, TPU
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Mesh & TPU upper
- Trailprotect pad for underfoot protection
- Breathable mesh lining
- Vibram TC5 outsole
- Stack height (heel/toe): 6.5mm; footbed: 0mm; insole: 3mm; midsole: 0mm; sole: 1.5web, 2mm lugs
User questions & answers
Question: | I had the uppers on my vapor glove 2s tear near the sole after a couple months. is the vapor glove 3 any more durable in this department |
Answer: | I had the same problem on my Vapor Glove 2’s- I’ve only had the 3’s a few weeks but they are much more sturdily built. We’ll see if we have any tearing issues like the 2’s did. |
Question: | How would these shoes do for lifting |
Answer: | I use them and they work well, completely flat so it is like you are standing in your socks. There is zero support for your ankles though. Also, if you happen to drop a weight or have a mishap around your feet with one, there isn't any protection for you feet as they are super thin shoes. |
Question: | Should my toe be touching the toe box. First time ever buyn shoes like this, so I don't know how much room should be between tooe and the of the shoe |
Answer: | Regarding sizing, they do fit larger (though according to the Merrell foot length/shoe size chart, these are true-to-size). While the bare access 4's and bare access flex fit the same as my other shoes (Altras, Brooks, Newton, New Balance), and the trail glove 4's fit about a half size larger than my regular shoes, the vapor glove 3's fit about a half-to-whole size larger. My impression is Merrell deliberately sized them larger than their other shoes (particularly in the toe area), so as to allow natural expansion of the foot which may happen over time when running in shoes the more "barefoot" they are. I certainly experienced this in my first 7 mile run in them, as when i tried my trail glove 4's after running in my Vapor Glove 3's, my toes were touching the toe guard. I usually hesitate from sizing down, because even when i wear my size or half size smaller in many shoes, I often experience toe-bleeding, but not the case with these. My guess is that the reviews complaining of premature tearing in the forefoot area of the upper may have to do with customers purchasing them without sizing down, which causes the shoe to bend where it is not reinforced or designed to bend as much. A whole size down would give a more snug fit and lighter shoe, though going a half size down still allows a supportive fit. I'm not sure how the sizing differential scales up with larger sizes, but I'd recommend 1/2 size smaller. And as a usual disclaimer with barefoot and minimalist running shoes, if you are new to barefoot running, take the necessary precautions (i.e. start off with lower mileage, to give your body time to adjust, and focus on proper running form such as proper cadence and foot placement). |
Question: | How does the sizing compare to the Vapor Glove |
Answer: | I wore a 9 in the original vapor glove and also in the vapor glove 2. 9 was way too small in the vapor glove 3. |
Product features
BAREFOOT
Barefoot shape with a glove-like fit providing natural comfort with minimalist construction. Zero drop from heel to toe for a natural stride.
VEGAN FRIENDLY
Feel Good. Look Good. Our vegan friendly footwear uses 0% animal products.
VIBRAM
High-performance rubber sole with unmatched durability, stability and slip resistance providing confidence on your feet.
Recycled Materials
Repurposing the old to make a better new.
Water Conservation
Every drop counts so we believe in the responsibility to use water thoughtfully.
Durability
Creating products that hold up to extensive wear.
Waste Not
Reducing landfill contribution through recycling, efficiencies, and innovation.
Product description
ALEADER lightweight barefoot shoes give you lasting flexibility for versatile use, simultaneously helping you maintain a steady grip for outdoor wear. The five-toe design stays snug to your foot for contoured comfort, and the mesh detailing gives you a dose of breathability. Thanks to the simple pull-on construction and built-on fabric pulls, these barefoot shoes are easy to wear — throw them on with complementary any color trunks for a functional, stylish running look.
- Rubber sole
- SIZE GUIDE: For comfortable, please choose one size Bigger
- Five-toe box design running shoes help you feel like you're barefoot for lightweight comfort.Mesh and TPU upper provides lasting flexibility and breathable
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure at instep for a more secure fit
- Machine washable. Air dry away from sun or heat source
- Specialized sole offers excellent grip properties on both dry and wet terrains while maintaining a higher level of durability, suitable for trekking and multisport as well as all season hiking and travel.
User questions & answers
Question: | So are your toes separated my material |
Answer: | No. Wide toe box. No separation |
Question: | I wear Five Fingers to keep my pinky toe from sitting under the toe next to it. Is there enough toe room in these for that |
Answer: | You should have enough room. The toe box if pretty wide and the mesh upper is completely flexible and allows plenty of wiggle room for the piggies. |
Question: | Can you run on your fore foot with these shoes |
Answer: | Yes. They are zero drop. |
Question: | How much of an arch support is there? I don't really want arch support, since it takes away from the 'barefoot' idea |
Answer: | I think you’ll be happy. There is zero arch support. Really feels like a barefoot shoe. I love these. |
Product description
Believe it or not, the popular Escalante just got even better. With increased decoupling in the midsole and outsole for more flexibility on the run, and added perforations for breathability in the upper, this Escalante 2 has a better fit and better performance. We've also added an updated insole that is less susceptible to compression and offers a better step-in feel.
- Rubber sole
- Heel measures approximately 1"
- ZERO DROP PLATFORMS - 0mm heel-to-toe drop place heel and forefoot the same distance from the ground for natural alignment and low-impact landing
- UPDATED VERSION - Altra Escalante 2 keeps its Altra EGO midsole, but the addition of flex grooves in the midsole and outsole allow for a smoother, more performance-driven ride
- REDESIGNED UPPER - The upper provides a more secure fit through the midfoot while the FOOTSHAPE design still allows for natural toe-splay
- WOMEN-SPECIFIC FIT - The running shoes are a bit narrower than the previous model, so we recommend to order 1/2 size up for a better fit
User questions & answers
Question: | What level of cushion |
Answer: | It’s pretty minimal. Since they are “zero drop,” there’s simply not room for much cushion. I love them, but I like to be close to the ground, so it just depends on what sort of shoe you like to run in. |
Question: | How do these compare to the Escalante 1.5 for cushioning and heel support |
Answer: | I can't compare because I bought only the E-2 but I can tell you that I wouldn't wear this shoe for a run longer than 6 miles on the streets. It's light and flexible (greater in the forefoot than the heel area). I'm 5'8" and weigh 132lbs. I love Altras - the best shoe ever for me. |
Question: | Is the sole rigid enough for hallux limitus? (Have pain in joint with movement |
Answer: | These are comfortable, supportive shoes (great for my bad knee) that do not have a rise from heel to toe (it’s a flat shoe). I run and walk in them. I don’t think of the soles as rigid per say. This is my 4th pair of Altras. I’m not sure what you need with your condition but maybe the above will help. |
Question: | How do these compare to the Altra Esclalante 1.5 shoes |
Answer: | I really like them! They're kind of a basic/standard shoe. They are zero drop. I'm not a runner, I just walk in mine and they took a little getting used to from the NB runners I wore. They don't lift your heal and tilt your foot forward like typical runners. Instead they encourage your feet to do the work. Having plantar faciatis, it's good for my foot function. |
Product description
Classic retro running shoe
Saucony took the original Bullet, a 1985 track shoe with spikes and all, and made it street legal. With a super-low profile, these nylon/suede shoes with a rubber outsole maintain the original sleek silhouette.
Saucony is among the most respected names in running shoes. They offer a wide range of running and walking shoes, each with the Saucony trademark fit, feel, and performance. They've spent years studying the biomechanics of top athletes because the goal is to develop creatively engineered systems that maximize your performance, allowing you to focus on the activity instead of the equipment. From studies have come many innovative Saucony concepts. Advanced technologies like Grid, the first sole-based stability and cushioning system, provide an advantage to athletes of all types.
- 100% Nylon
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Nylon upper with suede overlays is comfortable and stylish, the perfect combination
- Low profile silhouette and cross-country platform creates an authentic retro feel.
- Rubber sole
- Soft fabric lining with additional cushioning at the tongue and collar create added support and comfort.
- EVA midsoles absorb shock, cushion feet and give gentle support.
User questions & answers
Question: | Are the souls flat |
Answer: | No there is a slight rise in the heel |
Question: | Do these stretch out a little bit over time like most shoes? I ordered my true size and it's a little on the tight side width wise |
Answer: | I have several pairs of these. All of them are a full size over my normal size. I'm not sure if they stretch out. They are snug, light and comfortable. |
Question: | Does water get inside easily like some other brands I've tried in similar styles |
Answer: | Oh yeah...they're just a nylon upper. |
Question: | Do they come with 2 sets of laces (i.e. do the navy ones come with a white pair and a navy pair)or just the laces shown in photo |
Answer: | Yes they come with two pairs of laces, i got a size 10.5 they are a tight fit, i should of got size 11 just to have bit of extra room. Great shoes thou. Hope this helps. |
Product description
ALEADER lightweight barefoot shoes give you lasting flexibility for versatile use, simultaneously helping you maintain a steady grip for outdoor wear. The five-toe design stays snug to your foot for contoured comfort, and the mesh detailing gives you a dose of breathability. Thanks to the simple pull-on construction and built-on fabric pulls, these barefoot shoes are easy to wear — throw them on with complementary any color trunks for a functional, stylish running look.
- Rubber sole
- SIZE GUIDE: For comfortable, please choose one size Bigger
- Five-toe box design running shoes help you feel like you're barefoot for lightweight comfort.Mesh and TPU upper provides lasting flexibility and breathable
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure at instep for a more secure fit
- Machine washable. Air dry away from sun or heat source
- Specialized sole offers excellent grip properties on both dry and wet terrains while maintaining a higher level of durability, suitable for trekking and multisport as well as all season hiking and travel.
User questions & answers
Question: | I wear size 8 should I get an 8 or |
Answer: | I wear size 8 and got the 9 it fit perfect. |
Question: | Anyone have any input on if these help with shin splint issues |
Answer: | I think they might help work through the underlying issues that cause shin splints, but it will take training, icing, stretching and massage. |
Question: | How do I order a wide width in these shoes |
Answer: | Hi, the shoes are made regular size M I use all time 7, but because want to have space I order 1/2 longer but this brand doesn't have wide size shoes. Hope this helps your decision, check different brand that has a wide size. |
Question: | Where is this product manufactured |
Answer: | Read the description |
Product description
Created by studying the foot in motion, this trainer is designed to enhance the foot’s natural ability to stabilize the body during Rapid changes in movement.
- 100% Fabric or Textile
- Imported
- Vibram sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Mesh Upper- Allows air to penetrate the fabric for a cool, comfortable environment.
- M-Select FRESH- Antimicrobial agents reduce shoe odour for a fresher for longer feeling.
- Hyperlock TPU Film Heel Counter- Locked-in, secure feel.
User questions & answers
Question: | Do you wear socks with these |
Answer: | Yes, I only ever wear socks with these (never barefoot) and they're just fine. I don't have particularly wide feet so the wide toe box doesn't do much for me. I wear a medium thickness sock; the sock helps my foot conform better to the shoe interior, fwiw. If you find they're snug with socks for you, you could get a thin/sport-type sock that may help. |
Question: | what happened if You use this shoes in water no stink |
Answer: | Hi. I run on the beach a bunch with local 5k races. Shoe never really smelled it just started to breakdown after awhile with the salt water I guess. The rubber sole and shoe eventually separated. Great shoe though |
Question: | Can you fit a small arch support insert in this |
Answer: | Yes you can insert arch support, or just wear thick socks and you'll be fine. Myself the reason I do choiced the VG because cannot wear a rigid or shoes with pointy toe box / and thick sole. |
Question: | Would you suggest this shoe for a road marathon or just trail running |
Answer: | As with any barefoot style shoe, they take time to get used to. Work yourself up to hardtop running. Start small. I trained for and ran the Army Ten Miler in barefoot shoes 3 times with no issues. |
- Fabric or Textile
- Synthetic sole
- Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
- Cross-training shoe built for barefoot-like experience featuring breathable mesh upper
- PU overlays for durability
- XS Trek outsole with serrated blade tread pattern
- Zero Drop
User questions & answers
Question: | the size chart and the drop down menu do not match. I wear a 10.5, the size chart suggests that I would be a 44, however, the drop down menu says |
Answer: | According to Vibram's web site, you should go up 1 size. https://us.vibram.com/shop/fivefingers/men/training-fitness/el-x/M01.html?dwvar_M01_color=Grey%20%2F%20Black |
Question: | Is it okay to use it without socks and be cool about the condition of its sole in the long term |
Answer: | I've been wearing the El-X as my only shoe for 3 years now, that being said; I ALLWAYS wear socks with these now, they start to stink after only 1 or 2 days without them. I walk at least 10 miles EVERY single day in these, and they consistently last me about 3 months. If you walk less (most people average 1 mile or less a day) they will probably last longer |
Question: | How would these fit on an extra wide foot |
Answer: | Yes I wear 4EE and am a woman!!~~ they stretch to fit perfectly. I have been running since 2008 and wearing Fives since 2009 as well as just plain barefoot running mostly. Used to LOVE sprint style and have worn many others over the years. Found El-X in 2016 and am never changing to another style if I can help it. They are so light and like a sock with a rubber sole. So FLEXY!!~ I roll them up and tuck in pockets to run .. love them . |
Question: | wpuld anyone suggest running in these for a more "barefoot" running experience |
Answer: | You can run in these, but they are more intended for casual wear. I would highly recommend finding a pair of Bikilas, Lontras or the new V-Run (apparently the updated version of Bikilas) for running; they have softer and more absorbent insoles and thicker outsoles. The softer insole is also less prone to blisters, although this can be mitigated if you my socks for them, like Injinjis.Transitioning from a standard running shoe to Vibrams is a huge shift and needs to be approached with care. It's recommended that you cut back to about 30% for your normal distance in the beginning, and slowly and gradually build up. That's because you will be developing an entirely new muscle set in your legs. In my experience it shifts more load to below the knee, where most distance running favors the thighs. Without the crutch of thick foam rubber and gel soles to cushion your feet, you will need to train your legs to become your shock absorbers; you either develop a more "bouncing" gait where your calves and knees act like springs or you beat your feet, knees and hips to death on any run over 6 miles. I like running in them better, I feel lighter on my feet and have a better feel for the terrain. I would just caution anybody to ease into the transition. Runners have a tendency to dismiss the "start with 30% and work up slowly over time" rule and think "that only applies to ordinary people, not me." I did, and it applied to me after all. It applies to you, too. Once you make the transition though, I think you'll prefer the experience in Vibrams to standard, traditional running shoes. |
Product features
Details
- Weight: M43=4.23oz.
- Sole Spec: • INSOLE: 2mm EVA + Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner • MIDSOLE: N/A • RUBBER: 3mm
- Upper Material: Polyester Fabric
EL-X Sole
Vibram XS TREK is a technical compound that allows great overall performance qualities, in particular flexibility and wet traction. Highly responsive to the various demands of life, XS TREK will carry you from the trail to the urban playground and even to indoor activities, due to its non- marking features.
XS TREK Compound
- Optimal balance of traction and durability
- Responsive on unpredictable terrain
- Engineered for stability and comfort
Our Vision & Mission
VIBRAM creates innovative performance products that inspire people to experience the world. VIBRAM has a great vision: maintaining and strengthening its market leadership by offering reliable, high quality and high performance products for people who lead active lives. This mission has stayed the same over the years – Innovation, performance and quality – so that the company always lives up to its brand tradition. VIBRAM creates the best soles in the world.
- Rubber sole
- Produced using animal free products and processes.
- Zero-drop, non-elevated sole for proper posture and balance.
- Removable sockliner (insole) if you want a "more barefoot" feeling.
- Designed with a wider than average toe box to allow the forefoot to spread.
- True rubber sole provides great protection while still getting the ground feedback.
User questions & answers
Question: | Can they be returned if don’t fit? No return policy noted or explained |
Answer: | No, just money back |
Question: | Do these open fully |
Answer: | No. They open partially at the top. They adjust with elasticized drawstrings and velcro straps across the top of the foot. |
Question: | Where’s size |
Answer: | I recently ordered 7.5-8 because I wear a size 8 but had to return them, too small. I'm going to order the 8.5-9 and hope they're not too big. Size 9 should be 8.5-9 or next size after that. The first time I ordered these they were normal sizes and fit true to size. |
Question: | I wear a 6 in street shoes and a 6.5 in athletic shoes. Those don’t appear to come in smaller half sizes. Wondering what size to buy |
Answer: | I think most likely you will be fine with the 6. I wear 9.5 for athletic and 9 for any other kind and I got a 9. The fabric is so thin and the shoe is kinda wide on the toes area. My chubby feet loves these. |
Latest Reviews
View all
Symbol Necklaces For Girls Teens
- Updated: 18.07.2023
- Read reviews

40 In Smart Tv
- Updated: 27.07.2023
- Read reviews

Active Stylus For Windows
- Updated: 11.04.2023
- Read reviews

Case Star Bluetooth Keyboards
- Updated: 12.05.2023
- Read reviews

Knee Protection For Runners
- Updated: 27.05.2023
- Read reviews