2012 was a good year for minimalist trail shoes. Two of my personal favorites were the VIVOBAREFOOT Breatho Trail and the Inov-8 TrailRoc 235. What is there to like? Both shoes are zero drop, they provide good flexibility, they have gnarly lugged outsoles, a nice anatomic last, and quick-drying mesh uppers. Pretty much all of the properties I am looking for in a trail shoe for hiking, backpacking, and off-road running.
Merrell just released the Proterra Mid Sport, a shoe that is inspired by minimalist shoes. With its 21mm stack height and 4mm drop, a lot of Toesalad readers might not see them as minimal shoes. But the Proterra contains a few interesting features that make it worth a further look. And for next winter there will also be a waterproof and an insulated waterproof Proterra available, which will be great winter shoes.
Feelmax recently sent us their brand new Aapa to test and review - a great casual urban, office and travel shoe. With their minimalistic design in suede leather, and the only prominent detail being the Feelmax logo in red, they look very discreet. This design is perfect for people who like to wear minimal shoes that don’t scream for your attention.
My Kids like to be outside, and winter is no exception. Their little toes need protection and a lot of extra warmth (especially when the snow flies, and the temperatures drop). For casual winter wear, I have found a couple of affordable options for children; one such model being the Jack and Lily Toddler boots.
While I run exclusively in Vibram Five Fingers (Spyridon), hike in zero-drop barefoot style Altras, and spend leisure time in a pair of Stem Origins (now Lemming/Lems), my feet spend the majority of their time, at least half of every weekday, cooped up in traditional business shoes...
