Weight: 7 ounces
Trail Use: Good to very good
Off Trail Use: Good
Stack Height Heel/Toe: 15mm / 11mm
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 4mm
Width: Medium to narrow
Fit: True to size
Waterproof: No
What We Like: Good entry-level minimal shoe for moving quickly on trails with a snug fit

MSRP: $99
Weight: 7 ounces
Traction: 4
Support: 1.5
Long-Distance Comfort: 3

If you’ve tried lightweight hiking and trail running shoes and thrived, it may be time to dip your toe into the world of minimalist footwear. The New Balance Minimus trail 10v1 is the perfect entry-level minimalist shoe. The snug fit provides stability and security while moving quickly on trails, and the low stack height connects your feet to the trail. The 4mm drop is a happy medium, and will fit comfortably for athletes who are used to either a lower or higher drop shoe. This shoe has a snug fit, so we recommend trying them on before ordering online.

This shoe has excellent traction, and can be taken off trail or through rocky terrain. However, because of the minimalist design it is not recommended for extremely tricky terrain, featuring large boulder fields or root-covered trails. We recommend this shoe for backpacking and hiking with an ultralight system in semi-predictable terrain.

Read our complete guide | Best Hiking Shoes

PROS:

• Vibram outsole provides excellent traction
• Increased connection with the trails helps speed and stability
• Midsole wrap keeps your feet in place, the snug fit is designed to help your feet feel extra secure
• Very breathable

CONS:

• Lack of versatility, these are not suitable for extremely rocky or rooty terrain
• A “specialized” shoe that will not work for every foot
• Loses comfort on extremely long days (25+ miles) on the trail

BEST FOR:

• Backpackers, hikers, and trail runners who have used ultralight shoes and are ready for something lighter
• Wearers who enjoy feeling the terrain beneath their feet
• Trips in predictable terrain

---