Minimalist shoe

Minimalist shoes are defined as providing "minimal interference with the natural movement of the foot, because of its high flexibility, low heel to toe drop, weight and stack height, and the absence of motion control and stability devices.

[2] Research shows that wearing a minimalist shoe can help improve running economy,[3] foot strength and arch function.

Examples include the Nike Free, which has a 17 mm heel and is marketed as minimalist running shoe, but this designation is disputed.

[8] A 2022 review found that minimalist shoes increase the size and strength of the foot muscles in healthy individuals.

[9] A 2020 systematic review found that "minimalist shoes can improve running economy and build the cross-sectional area and stiffness of Achilles tendon but also induce greater loading of the ankle and metatarsophalangeal joint" compared to non-minimalist shoes.