Road running on zero drop shoes encourages a midfoot strike and natural running form. These shoes handle pavement miles while letting your feet function naturally.
Popular Road Shoes
Altra Escalante - Lightweight daily trainer with responsive cushioning. The go-to zero drop road shoe.
Altra Torin - More cushioned alternative for longer distances
Xero HFS - Minimal road shoe with thin, responsive sole
Xero Prio - Versatile shoe that works for road running and daily wear
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite - Ultra-minimal for experienced barefoot runners
Merrell Vapor Glove - Ground-level feel with just enough protection
Cushion Considerations
Pavement is unforgiving. Most runners do better with some cushioning for road work, even if they prefer minimal shoes on trails.
Beginner-friendly: Escalante, Torin - Enough cushion to ease transition
Experienced minimal: HFS, Prio - Responsive with moderate protection
Advanced barefoot: Primus Lite, Vapor Glove - Near-barefoot feel
Form Matters
Zero drop shoes encourage better form but don't guarantee it. Focus on: - Shorter, quicker strides - Landing under your hips - Relaxed shoulders and arms - Quiet footfalls