I haven’t done a product review in forever and it’s definitely time! If you’ve been reading for awhile you know I don’t take money or even free product in exchange for my reviews. I just don’t. So let’s start with that.
I have been a minimalist runner for almost five years. When I started out five years ago, there were really only two options: run completely barefoot, or wear Vibram FiveFingers, which I wore for awhile including for my first half and full marathons.
At that time, the whole concept was new and strange and a bunch of well meaning docs said it was going to ruin our feet forever. Now, maybe that will still happen, but so far, I have been thrilled with my transition to minimalist running and can’t imagine ever changing. You can read about my journey with that here.
Thankfully, research and technology have come a long way in five years and there are now lots of options. Maybe too many as it can be quite confusing!
Over the years, I have transitioned from the Vibram Five Fingers to the Merrell Dash Glove and, most recently, have been wearing the Altra Zero Drop Intuition.
I. Love. These. Shoes.
Yes, they are a teensy bit heavier than the Merrells and yes, that took a little bit of getting used to. BUT the extra cushioning is lovely and I feel like I’ve waited forever for the technology to come along that could blend zero drop (which is what my lower back demands) and cushioning that will get me through a half or full marathon without my feet hurting. These are the ones.
I completed a half marathon in them in January and will wear them for the Glass Slipper Challenge in just over two weeks. I’m actually considering getting a second pair because I just found them onsale at Zappos. I paid $100 at my running store and Zappos has them on sale right now for $69 with free shipping. Great deal.
Just remember, if you’ve never done minimalist running before transition slowly or you’re feet will fall off. Or something. I’m not actually sure why they just say don’t do that. No seriously, it does has something to do with stress fractures so take that seriously. Here’s an article if you’re looking for more Runner’s World on Minimalist Running.
Happy Running! And stay warm, Everybody!
Jen
While I LOVED my Merrell’s, my knees are demanding me to have more cushion, so I have had to stop wearing them. Waiting for the budget to get new shoes, but I’m anxious about going back with traditional running shoes since I got use to how light the Merrell’s were. This should be a fun new adventure in me buying shoes!
It can take a while to find the right shoe for you. Hang in there, Brandy! So proud of you for your bold goals and how hard you’re working!