Looking to boost your speed while staying true to barefoot running? Finding the right lightweight barefoot running shoe can make all the difference.
Today, I’m investigating the perfect blend of lightweight minimalism and speed – whether you’re pounding the pavement on roads or trails or feeling the rush of the wind between your toes in sandals.
Why lightweight shoes?
Research has shown that lighter shoes can significantly improve running performance. For instance, studies indicate that for every 100 grams added to a shoe, running economy decreases by approximately 1%, which translates to slower race times and increased energy expenditure. [reference]
Now, I’m not convinced this makes such a difference when comparing barefoot shoes, especially considering we only see differences in the range of ~50g. But there’s a distinct “weightlessness” feeling with lighter shoes that is hard to beat!
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Merrell Vapor Glove 6
Type: Road (light trails)
Width: narrow
Stack height: 6mm
Weight: 5.22 oz/ 148g for men’s US9
Super lightweight, flexible and fun! Read the full Review
I’m not going to lie; I wasn’t expecting to like this shoe. I’d heard about the Merrell “arch support,” which put me off in the past. Now, I’ve ended up with these shoes in my full rotation! Can you believe it?
The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is a super minimal, flexible shoe with a narrow but forgiving upper. It is advertised as a trail shoe, but this model belongs on the road or very smooth trails. The Vibram outsole brings a bit of squish (don’t worry, that doesn’t mean cushion), which may not be the longest-lasting shoe, but at the right price, it’s a great choice.
The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is a minimal, flexible shoe that delivers a lightweight feel. With a stack height of 6mm, you’re super close to the ground, and the shoe is ultimately flexible. If you want the shoe to get out of the way and your feet to do the work, this could be one for you.
Xero Shoes Speed Force II
Type: Road
Width: semi-wide
Stack height: 4.5mm
Weight: 6.5oz / 184g for men’s US9
My go-to barefoot road shoe. Read the full Review
The Speed Force II is a minimalist running shoe that prioritizes speed while staying true to a barefoot feel. With its 4.5mm thin outsole, the shoe provides a close-to-ground experience, making it ideal for runners looking to maintain a natural running form. The fit is deep and accommodating, although the toe box may feel narrow for some. For most people, ordering half a size up will ensure a more comfortable fit and prevent toe squishing.
The feel of the Speed Force II is unmatched in terms of a barefoot experience. Its flexibility allows the shoe to move in all directions, enabling natural foot movement throughout the gait cycle. The lightweight upper molds to the foot for a secure fit, while the minimal rubber sole provides excellent ground feedback, making it perfect for barefoot running practice on roads or flat surfaces. If you want a road running shoe that delivers a true barefoot experience, the Speed Force II is a fantastic choice.
Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II
Type: Trail
Width: semi-wide
Stack height: 9mm
Weight: 8.2 oz / 232g for men’s US9
My go-to trail option for mellow trails. Read the full Review
The Mesa Trail II is a lightweight, minimal trail shoe designed for runners who want both speed and natural movement. The fit is true to size for most people, providing enough width for average feet, while the flexible upper accommodates various foot depths. However, those with very wide toe splays might need to size up or look at other brands like Freet. The ankle cuff and heel cup are designed with minimal structure, allowing the shoe to mold perfectly to your foot, providing a comfortable and secure fit.
The feel of the Mesa Trail II is where it truly shines. With enough underfoot protection, it balances ground feedback with added confidence on rocky trails. The bi-directional 4mm lugs offer average traction for ascents and descents, but I wouldn’t suggest this for super muddy conditions. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool during hot runs and allows water to drain when soaked. The Mesa Trail II is a great choice for those seeking an agile, flexible, and protective shoe for light trails.
The Wild Card: Running Sandals
If you want a true lightweight feel, remove most of the shoe! 🙂 That’s right—sandals could be the answer! Technically, you could just go barefoot, but you’re best off having something underfoot if you want that little protection. Most sandal brands, like Xero Shoes, Earth Runners, Panta, and others, have a super minimal version that can weigh as little as 100g!
The hardest thing is getting the right fit.
I find sandals with a toe post—an attachment between the big and second toe—fit the best. This design stops the sandal from slipping side to side, but it can take a while to get used to the feeling.
My advice is to constantly make adjustments throughout the first few weeks. During that time, you learn what feels good and what feels horrible. It takes time, but once you dial them in, it’s pretty cool!
Conclusion
Many lightweight barefoot shoe options exist, but I advise optimizing for the conditions and fit rather than weight. Lightweight options are great for speed and agility, but sometimes you need more protection, especially on trails. And if your toes are squished in a shoe, it may be lightweight, but you’re risking your foot health in the long run.
- Find a shoe that fits your foot. If you’re looking for a great fit, you may be interested in my data-driven shoe-width blog post.
- Match the shoe to your conditions—are you on the road or the trail? Is the trail muddy or dry? Are there lots of sharp rocks, or is it technical?
- Finally, optimize for weight – There may only be few options left now, but now you can consider optimizing for weight! 🙂
Have you tried any of these shoes? I’d love to hear about your experiences—drop a comment below and let me know which lightweight barefoot running shoe helps you fly!
