While I have relatively forgiving feet when it comes to shoe fit and sizing, one thing I am definitely not is a zero-drop runner. I know plenty of runners who swear by the experience, but it’s never been a setup that has worked particularly well for me on the run.
That said, as I continue my strength training journey at 42 years old, I’ve found myself appreciating zero-drop shoes in a completely different way. The stability and connection to the ground are exactly what I’m looking for when lifting weights and working on balance-focused movements.
Last year, our own Drew tested Notace’s trail-focused Yama and came away with positive impressions. This time around, I’m checking out the Michi, Notace’s lightweight, flexible road-to-gym shoe designed around natural movement for training and everyday wear.
If you’re already accustomed to zero-drop footwear, I think there’s enough structure here for light running and cross-training. I’ve used the Michi for a handful of cardio-based workouts and had no issues. Personally, I wouldn’t want to do much more speed-based than that and wouldn’t recommend these as a running-centric option. The Michi features a modest 15mm stack height and weighs just 6.3 ounces in a men’s size 9 (women’s size 10), making it an impressively lightweight option.
Beyond the zero-drop platform, Notace is known for its natural foot-shaped toe box. The wider design encourages natural toe splay for improved stability and a stronger toe-off. While it is noticeably wider through the forefoot, it never looked awkward on foot. Even someone like me who doesn’t specifically seek out foot-shaped footwear likely, I don’t think these feel or look like I’m wearing something unusual.
Underfoot, the eTPU midsole strikes a nice balance between flexibility, cushioning, and ground feel. As a training shoe, I wasn’t expecting (or frankly desiring) a ton of bounce, but there was enough cushioning to make dynamic movements comfortable without sacrificing the stability needed for squats, lunges, and other exercises that require solid footing and balance.
The Michi is available in three clean colorways: White/Cream, Black/White, and Navy. All three have a simple, modern look that feels perfectly at home in the gym. I’ve been wearing the Michi during my three to four weekly strength-training sessions in the garage over the past few weeks, and they’ve quietly done exactly what I want a gym shoe to do. I never had to think about them, which is probably the highest compliment I can give a training shoe.
If you’re in the market for a new gym shoe, are curious about natural movement footwear, or are simply looking to improve the strength-training side of your fitness routine, the Notace Michi is well worth a look.
