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Whether you’re looking for more stability in your stride or added comfort for your feet, zero-drop running shoes might be the solution. Whereas traditional shoes have more cushioning under the heel than they do the toe (the difference in which is referred to as drop), these shoes have uniform stack heights front to back, meaning your foot has a stable, flat platform across the entire sole.
Zero-drop shoes are designed to facilitate the natural movement in your running stride by replacing an elevated heel with an even one, similar to if you were walking barefoot. They do tend to take some getting used to, with your muscles, tendons, and ligaments building strength as your foot acclimates.
Zero-drop shoes come in a wide range of designs and styles, with many skewing closer to a barefoot feel while others offer significant cushioning under your entire foot. So, whether you train on concrete streets or out on trails, and you find your current shoes lacking, check out one of these best zero-drop shoes, which could offer a stable, balanced alternative.
On a budget? Check out the best sales on running shoes from Nike.
The Best Zero-Drop Running Shoes
Best for Trail Running
Altra Lone Peak 7 Zero-Drop Trail Running Shoe
Read more
Best Road Running Shoe
Altra Paradigm 6 Zero-Drop Road Running Shoe
Read more
Best Value Trail Runner
Topo Athletic Pursuit Comfortable Zero-Drop Trail Running Shoe
Read more
Best for Training and Competition
Altra Vanish Carbon Zero-Drop Running Shoe
Read more
What to Consider
Prior to making the final call on a pair of zero-drop shoes, make sure you consider the stack height, fit, as well as the traction and grip.
Stack Height
Stack height refers to the thickness of a shoe’s cushioning. Because zero-drop shoes have no change in stack height from heel to toe, this figure should be fairly consistent across the entire length of the shoe. A shorter stack heigh will give you a better feel of the ground, while taller heights mean more cushioning. Stack height is measured in millimeters, with taller options generally falling between 25 to 35 and shorter options having as little as 0.
Speaking on stack height, Runner’s World test editor Amanda Furrer says: “I’ve found, for zero-drop newbs, it’s a smoother transition from a traditional shoe with drop when the zero-drop shoe has a taller stack height.” She adds: “You’re not slogging despite all that foam. And not being as close to the ground somehow makes easing into zero drops easier—at least for me personally.”
Fit
The fit of a zero-drop shoe that will work for you is largely dependent on your own foot shape as well as the overall design of the shoe. Many zero-drop shoes—including our top pick, the Altra Via Olympus—come with wider toe boxes. This gives your toes more room to splay and generally provides a more comfortable, looser fit. Outside of traditional toe boxes, five-toed boxes are also an option. These shoes have an individual pocket for each of your toes.
Traction and Grip
Another important facet when considering any pair of shoes is the traction and grip of the outsole. We included both shoes designed for trails and those made for smooth pavement. Road shoes tend to have flatter, less lug-y outsoles built to handle long, repetitive movement on consistently even ground. Trail shoes come with grippier soles meant to handle different weather and surface conditions so you don’t lose your footing. Their outsole lugs are also often deeper or more pronounced, latching better on and into uneven surfaces and providing sure grip on rocks, gravel, and inclines.
Additional Features
Many zero-drop shoes come with added features that can lend weather resistance, durability, comfort, or style. Options meant for trails and hikes oftentimes have waterproof uppers. Other shoes may come with thinner, porous material for breathability. We’ve noted below which shoes have these elements and how they can impact your run. Additionally, there are many zero-drop shoes that come in dozens of unique color schemes, so if the outer look and design of the shoes matters to you, there are options to fit your taste.
How We Selected
In selecting these shoes, we consulted our reviews and data from our comprehensive wear-tester feedback to determine the top-performing zero-drop shoes for a range of people and kinds of running. Furthermore, we spoke directly with Furrer about which options were the best, what to keep in mind before buying, and more. As you’ll quickly notice, the answer you’ll come to when searching for a zero-drop shoe will likely be Altra, due to the brand’s well-known zero-drop design and clear high-quality build. Altra was a pioneer of zero-drop shoes, after all.
Best Overall
Altra Via Olympus Zero-Drop Road Running Shoe
Best Overall
Altra Via Olympus Zero-Drop Road Running Shoe
Now 56% Off
Pros
- Wide, comfortable toe box
- Ultra-cushioned platform
Cons
- May be too heavy for some people
The Via Olympus steps up as one of the most comfortable zero-drop shoes on the market with an impressively thick 33mm stack height. This cushioning makes the shoe a great option for long-distance running, balancing forgiving squish on your feet with springy responsiveness.
The Via Olympus is a spinoff of the Olympus 4, which Altra designed specifically for roads, and uses an EVA-based, compression-molded midsole as in Altra’s other popular max-cushioned options. This style of midsole offers a comfortable, cozy feeling on the foot, even during long runs.
The breathable mesh and wide toe box provide a cooler, more comfortable shoe to wear on any street run. When testing out the shoes herself, Furrer says, “Running in the luxe upper and plush insole feels as soft and smooth as melting butter.”
Key Specs
Weight | 11 oz. (M), 8.9 oz. (W) |
---|---|
Type | Road |
Stack Height | 33mm |
Best Value
Altra Rivera 3 Zero-Drop Road Running Shoe
Best Value
Altra Rivera 3 Zero-Drop Road Running Shoe
Pros
- Responsive, soft foam
- Breathable mesh exterior
Cons
- Potential midfoot tightness
At a slightly more palatable price without nearly any sacrifice in quality, the Rivera 3 is one of the best values on the market. The third iteration of the shoe, it adds 2mm to the stack height, bringing it up to 28mm. The shoe offers a sleek, minimalist look while still providing solid features.
The wide toe box is a hallmark of Altra shoes and continues to receive positive reviews from our wear testers. The Rivera also comes with a light mesh upper, which improves breathability for longer runs on warm days.
The midfoot tightness may be an issue for some runners with wider feet, as the Rivera 3 has Altra’s slim foot shape design, the narrowest of the brand’s styles.
Key Specs
Weight | 9.8 oz. (M), 8.2 oz. (W) |
---|---|
Type | Road |
Stack Height | 28mm |
Best for Trail Running
Altra Lone Peak 7 Zero-Drop Trail Running Shoe
Best for Trail Running
Altra Lone Peak 7 Zero-Drop Trail Running Shoe
Now 33% Off
Pros
- Multidirectional lug pattern for improved grip and traction
- Stitch-less upper for a more secure fit
Cons
- Toe bumper is soft and thin
If you’re looking for a new zero-drop trail runner, the Lone Peak 7 is worth considering. With deep lugs across the outsole that dig into mud and dirt, a tacky outsole material that grips wet surfaces, and the durable toe cap protecting your piggies, the shoe is prepped to handle a wide variety of conditions.
The Lone Peak 7 shines as master of traction and maneuvering but also offers reliable comfort with a soft EVA and TPU stack. The new seam- and stitch-less upper of the seventh iteration allows for more uniform tightening around your foot when you crank on the laces, boosting security and comfort.
Key Specs
Weight | 11 oz. (M), 9.2 oz. (W) |
---|---|
Type | Trail |
Stack Height | 25mm |
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Best Road Running Shoe
Altra Paradigm 6 Zero-Drop Road Running Shoe
Best Road Running Shoe
Altra Paradigm 6 Zero-Drop Road Running Shoe
Now 27% Off
Pros
- Grid-style grooves in midsole for improved flexibility
- Guide rail system provides added medial support and stability
Cons
- Some reviewers on Amazon report upper tongue sliding to the side mid-run
The Paradigm 6 (which is also one of the best running shoes overall in our testing) is the soft, cushy option built for runners looking for a zero-drop shoe that does not sacrifice overall comfort. That being said, it provides solid responsiveness and springiness to keep it in the mix as an everyday training option, regardless of the thicker stack height. It also serves as a great entry point into zero-drop shoes if you’re hesitant about how the uniform stack may feel on the heel due to the thick overall cushioning.
“The Paradigm’s high stack (33mm) and guide-rail system lend support, making it an ideal choice for runners who want to try a zero-drop shoe but want some extra comfort,” says Furrer.
Key Specs
Weight | 10.8 oz. (M), 9.3 oz (W) |
---|---|
Type | Road |
Stack Height | 30mm |
Best Value Trail Runner
Topo Athletic Pursuit Comfortable Zero-Drop Trail Running Shoe
Best Value Trail Runner
Topo Athletic Pursuit Comfortable Zero-Drop Trail Running Shoe
Pros
- Vibram lugs on outsole for improved traction
- Roomy toe box, secure heel
Cons
- Laces may come undone over a long run or hike
Say you’re looking for a non-Altra zero-drop shoe. The Pursuit is a solid option. Built for trail running, it has a tacky Vibram outsole and lugs for a deep bite and sure grip. The shoe also has a solid 28mm stack height for comfort on extended hikes.
The mesh upper is breathable yet cushioned for a swaddling fit that won’t overheat your feet. Much like many Altra options, the Pursuit also comes with a roomier toe box for a comfortable, natural fit.
Key Specs
Weight | 10.8 oz. (M), 8.6 oz. (W) |
---|---|
Type | Trail |
Stack Height | 28mm |
Best for Training and Competition
Altra Vanish Carbon Zero-Drop Running Shoe
Best for Training and Competition
Altra Vanish Carbon Zero-Drop Running Shoe
Pros
- Carbon half plate for added responsiveness and stability
- Rocker shape for faster turnover
Cons
- Thin tongue may slide around
For racers and marathon runners, the Vanish Carbon could be the winning zero-drop option. It has a carbon fiber half plate in the center of the midsole that adds a bit more resistance and spring to your step. This plate also improves stability in the shoe through the stiffness it offers, helping prevent awkward landings and rolled ankles.
What further distinguishes the Vanish Carbon from other options is the rocker design, which helps propel you forward as you run by slightly curving the sole forward to continue your momentum. The shoes are also remarkably lightweight considering the amount of cushioning and stack height.
Key Specs
Weight | 7.3 oz (M), 6.2 oz. (W) |
---|---|
Type | Road |
Stack Height | 33mm |
Tom Price
Associate Reviews Editor
Tom Price is an Associate Editor of Reviews for Popular Mechanics, and also contributes to Runner's World, and Bicycling. He has previously covered product reviews, startup news, and even professional wrestling. In his free time, he enjoys watching pretentious TV, low-brow movies, and exercising for beauty, not health. If you are interested in exploring more of his work, check out his website.