Whether you’re curious about barefoot running for a more natural trail experience, or you’re a rare toe striker in search of shoes that better support your running style, you’re going to see the terms ‘barefoot running shoes’ and ‘zero drop shoes’ used a lot. In fact, you’ll often discover that the two terms are used interchangeably, while the shoes within these categories seem to span an enormous spectrum, from ultra-minimalist running sandals like the Xero Shoes Genesis to the comparatively beefy-looking Merrell Bare Access XTR.
So is there really no difference between barefoot running shoes vs zero drop shoes, or do your eyes deceive you? We’re here to explain the differences, where the two overlap, and help you choose the right shoe for your next speedy adventure.
