7 Best Low Drop Running Shoes in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
7 Best Low Drop Running Shoes in 2023
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The “drop” in road or trail running shoes refers to the difference in height between the forefoot (or toe box) and the heel section. The higher the “drop” in a shoe, the steeper the angle will be between the forefoot and the heel.

Low drop running shoes are designed to promote a more ‘natural’ gait. Their overall construction is also a great choice for forefoot and midfoot strikers. Having a lower drop allows the feet to make a full ground contact instead of catching the heel first.

We’ve rounded up 200+ low drop running shoes in the market and tested all of them for this comprehensive guide. We selected our picks in five categories from the best overall to great options in road or trail running.

Best overall
Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 Saucony Endorphin Shift 3
$150 $86 From Amazon
Best for trail
Altra Lone Peak 6 Altra Lone Peak 6
$140 $83 From Amazon
Best for flat feet
Altra Provision 6 Altra Provision 6
$140 $60 From Amazon
Best with wide toebox
Altra VIA Olympus Altra VIA Olympus
$170 $160 From Amazon
Best cushioning
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Hoka Speedgoat 5
$155 $110 From Hoka
Best for long distance
Saucony Kinvara 13 Saucony Kinvara 13
$120 $50 From Amazon
Best value
Altra Rivera 2 Altra Rivera 2
$130 $60 From Amazon
See all 185 low drop running shoes

    How we test running shoes

    Our aim at RunRepeat is to make the lives of other runners out there easier and more fun. We do in-depth research and testing to give you the best low drop running shoes that suit your training and racing needs.

    Here’s our following process:

    • We purchase all the running shoes on this list with our own funds. This is for the sake of transparency and freedom from bias.
    • We cut the shoes into pieces to get the accurate measurement of the stack, drop, and other 30+ parameters.
    • Our testers give us their feedback after they put in 30 to 50 miles of running wearing a particular model.
    • We gather more information from shoe experts and regular runners who have tried the shoes.

    Finally, we give our final verdict for each pair using our CoreScore system, which ranks the shoes based on the aggregated data above. A final rating is assigned ranging from 0 to 100. All the best performing low drop running shoes make it here.

    Best low drop running shoes overall

    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 review
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-cutting
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 lab test
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-breathability-smoke-test
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-light
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 fit
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 toebox width
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 gusseted tongue
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-heel
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-springy-ride
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-flex%20measure
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-heel-toe-transition
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 heel stack
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 insole
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 cushioning softness durometer
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-cushioning
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 freezer test
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 outsole
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 lightweight
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 heel collar
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-stability
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 sole width
    Saucony-Endorphin-Shift-3-flexibility
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 heel
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 upper
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 durability
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 quality
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 good looking
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 lab measurements
    Saucony Endorphin Shift 3
    88
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    In this version number 3, the Saucony Endorphin Shift loses a bit of speed but gains much more in comfort and protection. It’s a great daily performance trainer that’s able to shine on both easy days and when you need to push harder. Sure, it’s massive, but also surprisingly light on foot, stable, and versatile. And as a testament to its quality, runners who tried it struggled to find something that needs to be changed.

    Pros

    • Light for a maximal shoe
    • Comfy and secure upper
    • Softer than before
    • Surprisingly stable
    • Very versatile
    • Protective underfoot
    • Above average durability
    • Doubles as a sneaker

    Cons

    • Very big
    • Not for wide feet
    Full review of Saucony Endorphin Shift 3

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    White/Gum (S2081313)
    Night Lite (S2081365)
    Ether (S1081335)
    Soot/Basalt (S1081325)
    Ocean/Vizigold (S2081332)
    Black (S1081310)
    Agave/Basalt (S2081325)
    Concrete/Wood (S2081314)
    More colors
    $86
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  

    Best low drop running shoes for trail

    Merrell Nova 2 %2025
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Cut-2
    Merrell Nova 2 %2022
    Merrell Nova 2 %20921
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Run
    Merrell Nova 2 %2099
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Cush
    Merrell Nova 2 %2091
    Merrell Nova 2 %20917
    Merrell Nova 2 %2095
    Merrell Nova 2 %20924
    Merrell Nova 2 %20919
    Merrell Nova 2 %2092
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-360
    Merrell Nova 2 %20913
    Merrell Nova 2 %20912
    Merrell Nova 2 %20918
    Altra Lone Peak 6
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    Whether you’re a dedicated zero-drop runner, just dipping your toe into it for the first time, or like to spice up your rotation with something new, the Altra Lone Peak 6 is a solid workhorse of a trail running shoe. The Altra Lone Peak 6 is a genuinely excellent all-rounder.

    Pros

    • Fits true to size
    • Excellent all-round grip
    • Highly durable
    • Great ground feel
    • Feels like it makes you run better
    • Great pull tab
    • Gaiter compatible
    • Brilliant lacing
    • Roomy toe box
    • Fully gusseted tongue

    Cons

    • Stain magnet
    • Not enough cushioning for some
    Full review of Altra Lone Peak 6

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Maroon (AL0A547L666)
    Orange (AL0A547L880)
    Brown (AL0A547L990)
    Blue (AL0A547L305)
    Blue / Grey (AL0A547L242)
    Dusty Olive (AL0A547L315)
    Black (AL0A547L020)
    Black (AL0A7R6K020)
    $83
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $113
    See deal  

    Best low drop running shoes for flat feet

    Altra Provision 6 %2034
    Altra-Provision-6-Cut-1
    Altra Provision 6 %2030
    Altra Provision 6 %206
    Altra Provision 6 %2025
    Altra Provision 6 %2021
    Altra-Provision-6-360
    Altra Provision 6 %2033
    Altra Provision 6 %201
    Altra Provision 6 %203
    Altra-Provision-6-Cush
    Altra Provision 6 %202
    Altra Provision 6 %2035
    Altra Provision 6 %205
    Altra Provision 6 %2013
    Altra Provision 6 %204
    Altra Provision 6
    85
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    Anyone who’s heard of Altra’s religious commitment to the zero-drop running shoe will know a lot of what’s up with the Altra Provision 6. This mid-cushioned, zero-drop stability shoe continues Altra’s core line while continuing to add some unique features. If you’re new to the zero-drop scene, we’ve got you covered in this review too.

    Pros

    • Fits true to size
    • Very light for a stability shoe
    • Great for wider feet
    • Ingenious stability system
    • Incredible grip
    • More stability in the outsole
    • Good cushioning for a zero drop shoe
    • Great to have in a rotation
    • Good durability
    • Consistent flex in all conditions

    Cons

    • Forefoot may be too wide for some
    • Getting a good heel lock can be hard
    • Orthotics may not fit properly
    Full review of Altra Provision 6

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Beige (AL0A5475921)
    Black (AL0A5475000)
    Blue (AL0A5475036)
    Navy (AL0A5475445)
    Blue (AL0A5475440)
    Teal/Green (AL0A5475324)
    $60
    See deal  
    $70
    See deal  
    $98
    See deal  
    $102
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $130
    See deal  

    Best low drop running shoes with wide toebox

    altra via olympus review
    altra-via-olympus-cut-in-half
    altra via olympus lab test
    altra-via-olympus-breathability
    altra-via-olympus-breathability-light
    altra via olympus tongue thickness
    altra-via-olympus-ride
    altra via olympus inside
    altra-via-olympus-heel-to-toe
    altra-via-olympus-cushioning
    altra via olympus cushioning softness durometer
    altra via olympus in cold
    altra via olympus heel stack
    altra via olympus forefoot stack
    altra via olympus insole
    altra via olympus fit
    altra via olympus toebox width
    altra via olympus sizing
    altra via olympus heel upper width
    altra-via-olympus-heel-counter
    altra via olympus forefoot width
    altra via olympus heel width
    altra-via-olympus-stability
    altra via olympus rocker
    altra-via-olympus-stable-ride
    altra-via-olympus-flexibility-measurement
    altra-via-olympus-flexibility
    altra-via-olympus-landing
    altra via olympus toe
    altra-via-olympus-stable-ride
    altra via olympus outsole
    altra via olympus weight
    altra-via-olympus-price
    altra-via-olympus-reflective
    altra via olympus lab measurements
    Altra VIA Olympus
    85
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    The Altra VIA Olympus is the max-cushioned road runner that zero-drop fans have been waiting for. Though it managed to rain on its own parade with a firmer-than-expected midsole, this shoe more than made up for it with a comfy upper, stable platform, smooth ride, and the wide fit Altra loyalists have long demanded.

    Pros

    • Comfortable and premium-feeling upper
    • Roomy, unmistakably-Altra fit
    • Secure lockdown even for narrow feet
    • Smooth and responsive ride
    • Good for any distance at an easy pace
    • Effective, but not obtrusive, rocker
    • Copious amount of padding
    • Breathable
    • Absorbs impact well

    Cons

    • Cushioning on the firm side, but a toss-up on how firm
    • Doesn’t feel like a zero-drop shoe
    • Substantial break-in period
    • On the heavier side
    Full review of Altra VIA Olympus

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Mineral Blue (AL0A82BW419)
    Grey (AL0A82BW270)
    Orange (AL0A82BW013)
    White/Blue (AL0A82BW140)
    Black (AL0A82BW000)
    Neon/Blue (AL0A82BW740)
    $160
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  
    $170
    See deal  

    Low drop running shoes with best cushioning

    hoka speedgoat 5 review
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-cutting
    hoka speedgoat 5 lab review
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-grip
    hoka speedgoat 5 outsole traction
    hoka speedgoat 5 lug depth
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-breathability-smoke-test
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-light-transparency-test
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-spriny-ride
    hoka speedgoat 5 cushioning softness
    hoka speedgoat 5 in cold conditions
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-cushioning
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-flex-measure
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-stability
    hoka speedgoat 5 sole width
    hoka speedgoat 5 durable
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-lightweight
    hoka speedgoat 5 fit
    hoka speedgoat 5 forefoot width
    hoka speedgoat 5 gusseted tongue
    hoka speedgoat 5 tongue thickness
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-heel-flexibility
    hoka speedgoat 5 toe protection
    hoka speedgoat 5 heel stack
    hoka speedgoat 5 insole
    hoka speedgoat 5 forefoot stack
    Hoka-Speedgoat-5-reflective-elements
    hoka speedgoat 5 sustainable materials
    hoka speedgoat 5 lab measurements
    Hoka Speedgoat 5
    89
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    The Speedgoat 5 from Hoka remains your reliable and great-value do-everything trail shoe. But if you want to bring the best out of it, fast runs on very technical terrains can do the trick. On top of this, it ticks all the boxes of an excellent trail shoe. It's insanely grippy, durable, and supportive; conquering the great outdoors is an easy feat. Overall, take the Hoka Speedgoat 5 if you want to go fast and far.

    Pros

    • Super grippy
    • Springy ride
    • Stable platform
    • Extra durable
    • High impact protection
    • Lightweight
    • Breathable
    • Secure fit
    • Excellent heel hold

    Cons

    • Not for wide feet
    • Flared collar is not for everyone (style-wise)
    Full review of Hoka Speedgoat 5

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Deep Lake/Ceramic (DLCR)
    Stone Blue/Dark Citron (SBDCT)
    Bellwether Blue/Cyclamen (BBCY)
    Thyme/Fiesta (TFST)
    Fiesta/Radiant Yellow (FRYL)
    Scuba Blue/Black (SBBK)
    Outer Space/Bluing (OSBN)
    Impala/Flame (1123157IFLM)
    More colors
    $110
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $220
    See deal  

    Best low drop running shoes for long distance

    Saucony Kinvara 13 outdoor_001
    Saucony Kinvara 13 outdoor_007
    Saucony-Kinvara-13-saw cutting
    Saucony Kinvara 13_017
    Saucony Kinvara 13_010
    Saucony-Kinvara-13-outdoor 02
    Saucony Kinvara 13_025
    Saucony-Kinvara-13-torsion
    Saucony Kinvara 13_013
    Saucony-Kinvara-13-outdoor 04
    Saucony Kinvara 13_024
    Saucony-Kinvara-13-light 01
    Saucony Kinvara 13 outdoor_003
    Saucony Kinvara 13_015
    Saucony Kinvara 13_005
    Saucony-Kinvara-13-upper material
    Saucony Kinvara 13
    88
    Great!

    What makes it the best?

    The Saucony Kinvara 13 doesn't just look fast; it also runs fast. Apart from being the lightest Saucony Kinvara, it's also the brand's lively and natural-feeling jack-of-all-trades. It's a speed trainer that's cushioned enough for short to mid-distance runs, and is bouncy yet stable for faster paces. For Saucony fans, the Kinvara 13 is a low-to-the-ground complement to the famous Saucony Endorphin Speed 2.

    Pros

    • Soft and responsive cushion
    • Insanely light
    • Secure lockdown
    • Tongue stays in place
    • No lace bites
    • Breathable for warm weather
    • Reflective elements
    • Sustainably-made upper

    Cons

    • Lacks cushion for long runs
    • Too roomy for narrow feet
    Full review of Saucony Kinvara 13

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Alloy/Topaz (S2072315)
    White/Sand (S2072331)
    Triple Black (S2072314)
    Blue (S2072325)
    Gold (S1072316)
    Black/Silver (S1072305)
    Composite (S2072335)
    White (S2072384)
    More colors
    $50
    See deal  
    $65
    See deal  
    $66
    See deal  
    $75
    See deal  
    $80
    See deal  
    $120
    See deal  

    Best value low drop running shoes

    Altra Rivera 2 main outdoor image
    Altra-Rivera-2-saw-cutting
    Altra Rivera 2 lab view
    Altra-Rivera-2-reflective-elements
    Altra-Rivera-2-upper
    Altra Rivera 2 freezer test
    Altra Rivera 2 forefoot stack height
    Altra Rivera 2 heel stack height
    Altra-Rivera-2-cushioning
    Altra Rivera 2 outsole
    Altra Rivera 2 lugs depth
    Altra Rivera 2 pieces of the shoe
    Altra-Rivera-2-run-outside
    Altra Rivera 2 forefoot width
    Altra Rivera 2 front view trail run
    Altra Rivera 2 tongue thickness
    Altra Rivera 2 higher heel collar
    Altra Rivera 2 trail run mid stance
    Altra-Rivera-2-flexibility-test
    Altra Rivera 2 uphill trail run
    Altra Rivera front view
    Altra Rivera 2
    82
    Good!

    What makes it the best?

    Whether going fast or taking it easy on your training runs, the Altra Rivera 2 is a do-it-all daily trainer that's lively and energetic. It also delivers a natural-feeling run with its zero-drop design. On top of this, it's a trusty pick for runners who want a light, well-cushioned running shoe that can gobble up long miles on the road.

    Pros

    • Responsive on faster runs
    • Stable on uneven surfaces
    • Comfortable for long days
    • Lightweight
    • Form-fitting wrap
    • Spacious toe box
    • Visually appealing
    • Soft and stretchy upper

    Cons

    • A bit slimmer than the average Altra
    • Firmer than the Rivera 1
    Full review of Altra Rivera 2

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Grey (AL0A547G229)
    Navy (AL0A547G445)
    Maroon (AL0A547G666)
    Black (AL0A547G000)
    White (AL0A547G130)
    Green (AL0A547G305)
    $60
    See deal  
    $65
    See deal  
    $97
    See deal  
    $97
    See deal  
    $98
    See deal  
    $104
    See deal  

    Comparison of the 7 best low drop running shoes

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    Best
    CoreScore
    Users rating
    Experts
    Best price
    Ranking
    Popularity
    # of colorways
    Author
    Jens Jakob Andersen
    Jens Jakob Andersen

    Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

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