In its June 2013 issue, Running Times tackles the trail running shoe. Their "Trail Shoe Guide" mentions a few different shoes, including the New Balance Minimus 10v2, New Balance Trail Leadville 1210, Brooks PureGrit 2, and the inov-8 Trailroc.
I'm going to focus on the New Balance Minimus 10v2. This is a fantastic minimalist trail shoe. This upgrade is light (15% lighter) with a really low-to-the-ground feel. Minimal trail shoes are tricky. You want something that gives you that barefoot feeling yet still protects your feet from rocks and roots. This is that shoe.
It has a mesh upper with no-sew overlays, making it breathable and flexible. The midsole was made to be worn barefoot, with an internal construction that's all about getting rid of chafing. They use ACTEVA™ in the midsole which is a whopping 12% lighter than standard foam. All of this works together to give you what Running Times calls a "sock-like" feel.
FITNESS magazine also loves the New Balance Minimus 10v2 trail running shoe, awarding it "Best for Trails for low-impact trail running." Just in case you haven't heard enough about how comfy these shoes are... FITNESS magazine reports: "The flexible upper conforms to your foot like a slipper."
Read more about the New Balance Minimus 10v2 in the Running Times Trail Shoe Guide.
Looking for a great minimal trail running shoe? Check out the women's New Balance Minimus 10v2 and the men's New Balance Minimus 10v2.