Barefoot & Minimalist Shoe Durability: 74 Shoes Tested and Ranked

Which barefoot and zero-drop shoes actually last? Data from 74 shoes reveals surprising patterns about durability, stack height, and which brands deliver the best longevity.

Which barefoot and zero-drop shoes actually last? Data from 74 shoes reveals surprising patterns about durability, stack height, and which brands deliver the best longevity.

Comprehensive guide to zero-drop cushioned running shoes covering 28+ models, stack height analysis (21-33mm), durability data, Altra's category dominance, and expert recommendations for road and trail runners.

Altra's 2026 lineup is here with game-changing updates: new Vibram road compound, lighter Olympus foam, and the debut of FastPace technology. Here's everything you need to know about their latest road and trail releases.

Discover the best barefoot and zero-drop road shoes for 2025. Expert reviews and comparisons of the Vivobarefoot Primus Flow, Freet Vibe 2, Xero Speed Force 2, and Altra Escalante Racer 2—organized by fit profile to help you choose the right shoe for your feet.

Which barefoot trail shoe is right for your feet? After racing and testing four standout options this year, I'm breaking them down by fit profile—because that's what actually matters when you're choosing your next trail companion.

I get this question constantly: “What’s the difference between barefoot shoes, minimalist shoes, and zero-drop shoes? Aren’t they all the same thing?” Here’s the thing—they’re related, but they’re definitely not the same. The confusion is understandable because there’s significant overlap…

Comprehensive guide to barefoot running shoes with 37 tested models, stack analysis, durability data, and recommendations for every runner type.

Learn how to choose the right shoes for different race types. I'm racing a 65km ultra, a road vertical kilometer, and a trail vertical kilometer—each demands completely different footwear decisions.

Bahé's new Revive Modes bring options for all levels of foot-shaped lovers. By keeping the upper identical and tuning only stack height, they've created three genuinely different shoes—each carving out a legitimate place in any runner's rotation. The result? Real choice, not just different shoes.

Transitioning to barefoot running doesn't have to be risky. Bridge shoes occupy the perfect middle ground between traditional trainers and true barefoot footwear. They feature zero drop and wide toe boxes while maintaining enough cushioning to protect your feet during adaptation. Discover the three best bridge shoes that consistently deliver safe, successful transitions.