Whether you’re playing basketball or running or lifting in the weight room, training sneakers are essential to make the most out of your workouts. New Balance has released a new set of trainers: the New Balance Minimus Trainer MX20 and MX20v2.
The lightweight MX20 clocks in at 7.8 ounces, and according to New Balance, a variety of attributes make the shoe truly unique:  “NB Minimus is a whole new approach to footwear, a place on the spectrum from barefoot running to the traditional maximum-cushioning running shoe. Inspired by Good Form Running and designed to be worn with or without socks. With only a 4mm drop from heel to toe, as little as a third of that of a traditional running shoe, the NB Minimus collection holds a world of discovery for neutral runners; additionally, Good Form Running teaches methods of improvement for those seeking to conquer gait issues.”
Too avoid injury, those new to minimalist shoes need to have patience when wearing the shoe, since it is purposely designed without many of the support features of traditional training sneakers.

MX20v2

The MX20v2 builds on the MX20’s features. At 7.3 ounces, it is a bit lighter and more technical than its predecessor, and it makes use of a truer and more contoured insole and midsole. The V2 cradles your foot while allowing it to sit lower to the ground than the MX20. More protective, yet still flexible (especially in the toebox), the shoe uses synthetic upper materials to provide a more solid, stability-enhanced and secure base.
For a minimalist shoe, the V2’s support is tremendous. Strength in the lacing and corresponding eyestays guarantee a secure fit. The lacing and the tongue are so well engineered, the shoe feels more like a mid-cut than a low-cut. Although the cushioning is relatively unsubstantial, you can remedy that by wearing thicker socks. You’ll get a plusher feel while realizing the benefits of the shoe’s stripped-down design.
What sets the V2 apart from its competitors is its flexible sole—significantly lighter than the MX20, with added traction and grip, yet highly compressed for virtually non-existent midsole degradation. Rubber outsole pods are tailored precisely to high wear areas of the shoe, as are segmented plugs—in contrast to the MX20’s forefoot and rearfoot outsole inserts.
All in all, both versions of the MX20 training sneaker offer a stable foundation for improved alignment and versatility to support a variety of training endeavors.