Details
Brand
New Balance
Heel To Toe Drop
4mm
Breathability
8/10
Latest Version
Minimus Trail v4
Terrain
Trail
Type
Minimalist
Key Features
• Lightweight• 3mm drop• Antimicrobial treatment on insoles• Vibram outsole• Deconstructed ACTEVA foam midsole• TPU toe cap• Multidirectional lugs
Upper
The upper portion of the shoe is made of a light weight, flexible and breathable seamless mesh. Since it is seamless, there is a reduced chance of blisters and chafing. According to some users, though, the upper mesh is a bit tight. The upper also features no-sew overlays which provide support to the upper portion of the shoe. For protecting runners from having bruised toes, the shoe touts a TPU which sits right atop the shoe’s toe box.
Midsole
This shoe makes use of deconstructed ACTEVA midsole which is known for its feathery-light cushioning and flexibility. This makes the shoe light and responsive. The midsole also features anti-odor property. Unlike many low drop and minimalistic shoes, this shoe has a good amount of arch support. However, this shoe overall is for the neutral runner. Runners needing support for pronation issues are encouraged to look elsewhere.
Outsole
This shoe has a Vibram rubber outsole which provides improved traction to the shoes. The solid traction from the outsole allows you to run comfortably even wet surfaces. The biggest change to the Minimus Trail v3 from its previous iteration is the multidirectional, semi-aggressive lugs on the outsole. They are longer and there are more of them, allowing for a better grip on the ground whether you are running a highly technical trail or a buffed out trail. Some reviewers did mention they used the shoe on roads with success, however, the multidirectional lugs make this shoe best for trails.
Breathability
This shoe features a mesh upper which maximizes the breathability of the shoe. The mesh itself is super light and allows for good ventilation. The synthetic overlays are minimal, allowing some support with taking away from breathability. Another great feature is that the shoe is quick drying in the event it becomes wet. Because these shoes are so breathable, they wouldn’t do well particularly well in cold weather.
Comfort
These are a minimalistic shoe, so if you are looking for a ton of cushioning, look elsewhere. The simple midsole offers some cushioning and support, but not too much. However, it is still comfortable. The excellent breathability adds to the overall comfort of the shoe as well. The biggest comfort feature is the ability to wear the shoes without any socks. Some reviewers did state that blistered formed when wearing these shoes without socks. Also, some reviewers felt the shoe was a bit too narrow in the toe box area.
Style
From an aesthetic standpoint, reviewers stated that overall this shoe has improved from its previous iteration. The laces are shorter and can be tied better which is both functional and gives the shoe a better, sleeker appearance. However, according to some reviewers, the stitching done with different color accents on shoes seems unappealing. Since this shoe has been discontinued, finding different color options might be difficult.
Durability
Reviewers stated that they were happy with the durability of the Vibram outsole. There were a few issues with the outsole wearing on technical terrain, but overall, runners seemed pleased with how long lasting the outsole was. The TPU on the toe also adds another layer of durability, not only protecting feet but the front of the upper from tearing from trail debris. The deconstructed ACTEVA midsole is also very durable, and hold up over time. For a minimalistic shoe, the Minimus Trail v3 holds up very well.
Protection
The strongest protection feature would be the durable Vibram outsole, which will help protect your underfoot from rough terrain. However, in order to keep this shoe light and flexible, there is no rock plate in this shoe. The TPU toe cap protects your toes from any obstacles you may encounter. The lugs also help keep you on your feet regardless of how difficult the terrain is. There is some cushioning in the midsole, which also protects the underfoot. However, in order to stay light and flexible, minimalistic shoes do not come with a with such features as a rock plate. However, these shoes will provide the protection the runner needs while on the trail while still offering a lightweight, barefoot-like ride.
Responsiveness
This is a very responsive shoe thanks to the minimal, effective deconstructed ACTEVA foam in the midsole as well as the flexible mesh upper. The low drop also gives a great ground feel, which is especially important for runners who prefer the barefoot-like feel. The overall weight of the shoe keeps runners light and nimble on the trail. The lugs on the outsole are longer and there are more on them in this version of the Minimus than the previous one, which works well with the overall responsive, allowing runners to grip technical trails more efficiently.
Support
Usually, minimalist shoes do not score that high on the support front, and these shoes do still cater to the neutral runner. These shoes, however, do provide good arch support without being excessive. The overlays provide structure and support to the top of the foot. The well-fitting mesh upper is flexible but wraps nicely around the foot. The laces also work well in keeping the foot stable and secure. However, if you suffer from pronation issues, these might not be the shoes for you.
Terrain
These are trail running shoes. You can use them off road and on mountains. The shoe features numerous lugs that enhance its grip on all types of terrain. Though you can do some road running in these shoes, it is not recommended. Running on pavement and road will cause the lugs to wear out prematurely. To get the best life out of your shoes, we recommend that they stay on the terrain they were designed for.
Price
The Minimus Trail v3 is a reasonably priced shoes, especially compared to other trail running shoes. The quality and durability you get make it well worth the investment. Originally, these shoes went for $115, but since these shoes are discontinued, you can find them at a lower price. However, it is hard to snag a pair. If you do in fact find a pair in your size, make sure you grab it before its too late!
Drop
The Minimus Trail v3 shoe features a 4mm drop. This definitely classifies it as a minimalistic shoe. Runners who are used to a higher drop should be careful and slowly transitioning to the lower drop.
Stability
Most minimalistic shoes do not offer a ton of support and stability. However, the Minimus Trail v3 does a great job of providing just enough support and stability to allow for a natural but stable ride. The midsole offers good arch support. The laces and upper provide a secure fit. The traction of the outsole keeps runners stable. If you are looking for some support, but don’t want to lose that barefoot feeling, these shoes are worth checking out.
Flexibility
The Minimus Trail v3 is a light, flexible shoe. They are so flexible, you can roll them up. The upper is a super light, flexible weight mesh that moves with your foot. The midsole is very thin, allowing for natural foot movement. As a minimalistic shoe, the Minimus Trail v3 does a great job of giving the runner a flexible, barefoot-like ride.
Traction
Traction refers to the way the shoe, specifically the outsole, grasps the terrain. Thanks to the numerous multidirectional lugs located on the outsole, the Minimus Trail v3 provides excellent traction on a variety of trail, even on rough, technical terrain. The outsole is made of Vibram rubber, which offers additional traction. The Vibram rubber is sticky and allows runners to traverse slick and rocky terrain.
Bottom Line
If you have been a fan of the previous versions, then you will not be disappointed in the Minimus Trail v3. The updates have not been drastic, but the changes made were welcomed. There are more lugs on the outsole and the overall style of the shoe got an update, which for the most part, was well received. The traction is even better than the previous version, allowing you to take on a variety of surfaces. The shoes are very lightweight, flexible, and surprisingly, supportive, especially for a minimalistic shoe. Reviewers did have issues with the narrow fit, especially in the forefoot area and some runners had issues with blistering when wearing the shoes without socks.;Since the release of the v3, New Balance has not only put out a fourth version but rereleased the popular original Minimus Trail shoe. However, overall, the Minimus Trail v3 is a solid trail running shoe, worthy of being a part of any trail runner’s rotation.
