Review on Distance Elite Newton Running Shoes by Braxton Jackson

So what if you're a minimalist runner but can't wear those minimalist 4mm uncushioned running shoes on the concrete or asphalt you run on? That is the answer. I tried very hard to go all the way to a full minimum run in flats with almost zero cushioning and spent over 2 years with Newton making a gradual transition from typical cushioned running shoes. When I ran in zero flats, the concrete and asphalt I run on (I'm in the city) was too heavy for the bones in my legs. So I went back to Newton and it was perfect. There are different Newtons, but this is the most minimalist model you can get. It's about the lightest, plus it only has 2mm front-to-back lift (damn close to zero). The original 4-cleat pattern doesn't cushion either, but rather resembles a cushioning cleat (4 of them in the front) that presses into the shoe on impact and thereby cushions the impact. The 4 cleats are more prominent than the new 5 cleats which offer lower profile cleats (5 of them) instead of 4 and feel more like a regular shoe than Newton's unique shock absorption system. The Newton 5 stud design was for stability and if you move sideways it gives you a bit more but these are trainers not tennis shoes so I didn't see a need for them as I and pretty much all runners tend to go after them forward than move to the side side . , unless they have a rat maze type course or use it for CrossFit purposes. For the record, I used to think the discontinued new Balance Zero Minimus was the perfect shoe, but even on concrete I had to add an impact sockliner that the Newtons handle well. If you run on softer surfaces than concrete or asphalt and need a minimal shoe, you could probably opt for a thinner shoe with a 0mm instep, although that's an option. but the running shoe industry seems to have given up. to minimal shoes and deals have been reduced so this might still be your best choice. I can say this is the closest thing to a true minimal shoe without the risk of impact injuries on harder surfaces.