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Buyer's Guide

New Balance MT10 Review & Sizing Guide

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The New Balance MT10 is a revived Minimus minimalist trail shoe, worth it for buyers who want low, flexible ground feel, though its tapered toe box and toe spring make it a risky pick for barefoot purists.

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Key facts

Popularity
Revived niche favorite, strongest in minimalist circles.
Comfort
Flexible and light, but not plush or protective.
Fit
Toe-box and heel fit opinions vary; wide options scarce.
Value
$120 MSRP feels fair when bought at retail.
Use case
Best for light trails, road miles, and casual wear.

Full breakdown

New Balance launched the Minimus MT10 during the early-2010s barefoot-running wave that "Born to Run" set off, positioning it as a stripped-down trail shoe with almost no cushioning between foot and ground. The brand revived the silhouette in 2025 with updated suede and mesh builds, and it has found its strongest following among minimalist runners who remember the original as one of the better low-drop trail options of its era.

FAQ

Does the MT10 fit true to size?

Length is usually workable in your normal size, but the MT10 runs low-volume with a tapered forefoot. Owners note it has a fairly tapered toe box and noticeable toe spring, so toe splay, not length, is the real sizing risk. Broad-footed buyers should try a pair on before committing.

Is the MT10 comfortable for walking?

Only if you actively want firm, flexible ground feel. The thin, low EVA sole is light and flexible, which suits casual walking and light trails but offers little impact protection. Buyers expecting 2002R or 990-style plush cushioning will be disappointed.

How is the MT10 different from the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail?

Choose the MT10 for a minimalist trail feel with more sneaker structure and New Balance styling. The Vivobarefoot Primus Trail is the cleaner barefoot pick for genuine wide toe splay. A leather-upper MT10 can also be a durable, long-lasting option if the flex point matches your foot.

Who should avoid the MT10?

Skip the MT10 if you need plush impact protection, a reliably wide toe box, or grippy wet-trail traction. Reviewers describe it as best for dry light trail and road miles, so max-cushion runners and broad-footed buyers should treat it as a risky blind buy.