The minimal running shoe concept continues to take foot, and at the recent Outdoor Retail Show New Balance offered a look at its Minimus Hi-Rez, a running shoe that weighs just 4.3-ounces yet provides a reasonable amount of cushion and protection for the wearer.
The secret is the hexagon rubber pods on the sole. 42 of these unconnected nubs, which are mounted on the soft foot bed, provide cushion for those who want to go minimal but not quite barefoot. The sole is flexible and each pod moves independently as the wearer walks or funs, but still provides that moderate protection.
The shows will be available later this summer.