2024.09.24
Shoes Bringing You Closer to the Barefoot Sensation! New Balance's "Minimus" Makes a Much-Awaited Comeback
In recent years, running shoes with thick soles have become mainstream, but in the early 2010s, flat (low differential between forefoot and heel) minimal shoes gained attention for barefoot running.
One of the shoes that was supported by runners enjoying barefoot running at that time was New Balance's "Minimus" series. This series, which aims to maximize the natural strength of the human foot while providing a barefoot-like feeling, became popular as training shoes for athletes beyond runners and everyday footwear for those wanting to strengthen their foot muscles.
Now, the much-anticipated return of "Minimus" has arrived. What kind of shoes have been released this time?
The Return of "Minimus" at a Time when Thick Soles Dominate
New Balance's "Minimus" series first appeared in spring 2011, releasing models for trail running (MT10/WT10) and road running (MR10/WR10). In 2012, a model developed in collaboration with trail runner Anton Krupicka was released, creating a buzz.The purpose of the "Minimus" series is to minimize the functionality of the shoe itself to bring out the potential that the foot possesses. This garnered significant attention from many runners, especially as Christopher McDougall's bestseller "Born to Run" gained popularity among barefoot runners at the time. However, we are currently in an era of thick soles. Why now for a revival?
"As seen with runner Akira Akasaki, who placed in the men’s marathon at the Paris Olympics wearing the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4, thick-soled shoes equipped with carbon plates have become essential for winning races and setting records.
"On the other hand, many runners seek shoes without carbon plates for training, preferring thin soles that strengthen their leg muscles. Even among top athletes, there has been a desire for training shoes that provide a good sensation of using their own legs and feet.
"Moreover, as the competition to develop thick-soled shoes intensifies, some individuals have expressed a desire to run and train with a more minimalistic approach rather than adapting to heavily engineered shoes.
"In this context, what could New Balance do? The answer was the revival of 'Minimus' with the concept of 'Less is more,' emphasizing that having less can be richer,” said Aoi Mamiya from New Balance's running footwear team.
Advanced Materials Used in the Midsole
The newly released models are the trail running model "NB Minimus Trail" and the training model "NB Minimus Training." What are these shoes like?
"NB Minimus Trail is a model developed for running on uneven ground, such as trail running and cross country. The drop (difference in height between the forefoot and heel) is 4mm, just like past Minimus models. The midsole utilizes the energy-returning FuelCell compound.
"Previous Minimus models had a strong oblique shape at the forefoot, but this one has been updated to be a bit more forgiving. Additionally, the area around the collar has been revised for easier entry and reduced friction."
With its low drop and minimalistic design, it achieves a state close to barefoot contact with the ground. As a result, it encourages a landing method that disperses impact throughout the entire foot (midfoot landing). This shoe is ideal for runners who want to master midfoot landing and those seeking direct ground feel.
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