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Heres exactly what zero drop means, and why you might want this style of sneaker in your closet.
Photo:Shape / David Hattan
This simple shift in foot positioning can have a massive impact.
The best zero-drop shoes come in a wide range of designs and styles.
And while it is a great wear-every-day option, our Shape tester especially loves these for traveling.
IMAGE: ALTRA.
Weve also heard from a number of healthcare workers who say they’re among thebest shoes for nurses.
These professionals bust through their 12-hour shifts with zero aches and pains all thanks to these lightweight shoes.
Did we mention that their light weight and low profile make them super easy to squeeze in a carry-on?
PHOTO: REI
And their all-white colorway is easy to dress with nearly any kind of outfit?
Yeah, these are a zero-drop option you definitely want to have in your closet.
Also available in men’s sizes atAmazon,REI, andAltra.
PHOTO: Zappos
Even during her sweatiest runs, the mesh dried quickly and prevented swamp foot.
Also available in men’s sizes atAmazon,Altra, andREI.
One Shape tester loved the way these shoes hugged her heel and midfoot.
PHOTO: REI
There was no slipping or gaping inside of the shoe.
Also available in men’s sizes atAmazonandMerrell.
One of the originals in the category, this model keeps getting better.
IMAGE: AMAZON .
Meanwhile, the Altra EGOTM midsole cradles your foot in comfort, without impeding its natural flex and responsiveness.
(The result: Your feet feel stronger and tire less quickly.)
Created with the brands ZipFoam, the shoes midsole feels responsive yet delivers a pillowy-soft ride.
PHOTO: Amazon
It might just be the perfect amount of foam to strike the balance between cushion and ground feel.
Also available in men’s sizes atTopo AthleticandZappos.
You lift heavier, which over time improves your overall strength and muscular endurance.
IMAGE: Vivobarefoot .
Also available in men’s sizes atAmazon,Zappos, andAltra.
Do you have narrow feet?
Also available in men’s sizes atAmazonandVivobarefoot.
PHOTO: Amazon
Also available in men’s sizes atXero ShoesandREI.
Meanwhile, the upper is made from a combination of premium leather and rubber.
(Yes, the leather is water-resistant.)
PHOTO: Be Lenka
Also available in men’s sizes atBe Lenka.
Do you have narrow feet?
Meanwhile, the Active Ortholite Performance Insole is made of 98 percent recycled PU foam.
PHOTO: Vivobarefoot
Also available in men’s sizes atVivobarefoot,Dick’s, andREI.
These durable yet affordable trail running shoes are a perfect example.
Youll feel a noticeable difference in the level of structure and support throughout this shoe.
PHOTO: Amazon
Also available in men’s sizes atAmazon.
Its important to ease into zero-drop shoes gradually.
Most people are able to fully transition to zero-drop shoes within four to six weeks, Beckstead said.
Zero-drop shoes are an excellent choice forstrength training.
Whether sweating in her local CrossFit box or on the trail, she is always test-driving zero-drop shoes.
Our Experts
For this article, the Shape team interviewed experts who know feet:
