I recently reviewed the second generation minimalist running trail shoe from New Balance, the Minimus Zero Trail. To everyone’s surprise, New Balance also launched a super-wide version, the 4E width, in addition to the standard D width (or B width for women). For runners with wide feet including myself, this is seriously welcomed news!
As I mentioned before in my review last year, for the early media samples, only the standard D width is available and I had to size up one full size to fit my 2E+ feet into the NB Minimus Zero Trail. However, I had too much length (more than half an inch) in the shoe and just enough width. I’m adjusted to it but it is still not my desired fit. With the 4E option, it is now perfect!
For comparison purposes, let’s look at a NB Minimus Zero Trail US Size 10 in both D and 4E width for men.
|
Weight |
Width |
|
| Zero Trail D |
4.6 oz |
98.5mm |
| Zero Trail 4E |
5.2 oz |
107.5mm |
Additionally, the widest portion of my foot is about 105mm standing up and it will splay out at least 10% more when running.
Other than the width differences, the shoe is exactly the same as far as I can tell.
After running in the wide widths for the last week in my usual wear-testing trails, I can honestly say that the NB Minimus Zero Trail 4E is now one of my top 3 go-to shoe for trail running! All the trails that I run in are non-technical but it might work in some technical trails. If not, the New Balance MT110 (or WT110 for women) is your other option.
The New Balance Minimus Zero Trail is now available in many bright colorways for men and women on the New Balance web site and in running specialty retailers.
*Product provided by New Balance (MSRP $100). CMP.LY/1 Review
If you have a product you’d like reviewed, contact me at info@weartested.org