Nick

Nick is a UESCA-certified ultramarathon coach and avid barefoot runner, having over 5 years of experience in barefoot training and has competed in multiple ultra marathons wearing barefoot shoes. Starting his journey in the running industry over 10 years ago in New Zealand, Nick evolved from a running shoe salesperson to a passionate advocate for the transformative power of barefoot running. He believes in its potential to enhance running experiences for all and combines his unique insights from both personal achievements and professional coaching to guide and inspire the running community."

Joined: 2018-12-27
Articles: 105
Comments: 130

Roundups

Top 5 Minimalist Trail Running Shoes (2024)

Minimalist shoes and trails seem like an unlikely combination to some. They might ask, "What about sharp rocks and roots?" However, it is entirely possible to run trails in minimal shoes. In fact, many options are available on the market for this purpose.

Nick
2023-12-31

Reviews, Topo Athletics

Topo Athletics ST-5 Review – Wide toe box, but it does have flaws

The ST-5 is a perfect option for those looking to add some cushion to their barefoot mix, but there is one fundamental flaw that I can’t get over.

Nick
2023-12-30
5 Comments

Lems, Reviews

Lems Primal 2 Review – A minimal shoe for wide toe splays

The Lems Primal 2 has a drastically different design than you’d see from many other barefoot brands. A more durable upper than you’d typically see on hiking options. An outsole that rounds to mimic a human foot. And a wider fit for those who need it.

Nick
2023-12-25

Roundups

My 5 Top Running Shoes from 2023 – Barefoot and cushioned options

So now it’s time to introduce my top 5 barefoot running shoes for the year. Some are true minimal shoes, and some have a little cushion, but all are still zero drop for now!

Nick
2023-12-23
1 Comment

Reviews, Xero Shoes

Xero Shoes Speed Force II Review – The most minimal shoe right now?

The Xero Shoes Speed Force II is a minimalist running shoe with a 4.5mm outsole, providing a close-to-ground experience with minimal protection. If there ever was a barefoot shoe, this is it.

Nick
2023-12-22
7 Comments

Merrell, Reviews

Merrell Trail Glove 7 Review – A lightweight, protective shell

After trying out Trail Gloves' little brother, Vapor Glove 6, I had high hopes for the shoe. I expected to get the same fit and feel but just a little extra protection. However, I found that additional protection drastically changes the fit and feel of the shoe.

Nick
2023-12-14

Merrell, Reviews

Merrell Vapor Glove 6 Review – Barefoot feel with a bit of squish

Weight 4.59 oz/ 130g for men’s US9 Stack height 6mm total stack height (2mm lugs)Zero Drop Made for Soft ground trails + roadShorter distance Barefoot training Fit Low volumeNarrow/average wide midfootAverage Wide Toe boxTrue to size Feel Very flexibleMaximum ground…

Nick
2023-12-10
3 Comments

Reviews, Xero Shoes

Xero Shoes HFS II Review- An update to my favorite minimal shoe

I’ve not hidden the fact that the original Xero Shoes HFS is one of my favorite barefoot shoes. It’s minimal, flexible, and locks onto the foot perfectly. So, when I heard there would be an HFS II, I was worried…

Nick
2023-12-05

Bahé, Reviews

Bahé Revive Review – A wide barefoot feel with a grounding twist

When I first saw Bahé running shoes, I was intrigued. They seemed to serve an area of the market most brands had forgotten. The 10mm stack height sits right in the middle of the barefoot offerings from Xero Shoes and…

Nick
2023-12-03

Roundups

NEW Altra Shoes for 2024 – Escalante 4, Mont Blanc Carbon and more

It’s that time of year when we start to see what Altra has in store for us in 2024! I was in person at The Running Event in Austin and got my hands on many of these shoes. And I,…

Nick
2023-12-01
22 Comments