New Balance Minimus

WHAT'S NEW? The first minimalist offering from New Balance.

WE SAY There's been a buzz in the market about the release of this shoe and the positive feedback will be a relief to New Balance. The lack of heel cushioning and the 4mm differential  between heel and toe height (as opposed to typically 12mm on a cushioned running shoe) mean the foot is lower to the ground, which encourages a mid-or forefoot-striking style. A roomy toe box is good news for wider-footed runners, and the levels of responsiveness and flexibility are both superb. The deliberate lack of cushioning, however, means that those who are new to stripped-down shoes should start with runs of 30 minutes and build up from there. An excellent starter shoe for barefoot and minimalist newcomers.