Many people assume that all minimalist sneakers are pretty much the same—lightweight, flat, maybe a little stylish. But after thoroughly testing several models, I found that some shoes truly excel in comfort, durability, and natural feel. Take the ASITVO Wide Men’s Barefoot Zero Drop Sole Minimalist Width; its wide toe box, textured rubber sole, and super breathable mesh make it stand out when it comes to providing stability and sensory feedback on urban surfaces.
Compared to other options like the WHITIN W81 or Women’s Trail Shoes, I noticed the ASITVO’s no-sew design and removable insoles offer a better fit and longer-lasting comfort. While WHITIN models are flexible and stylish, the ASITVO’s combination of wide toe space, enhanced stability, and textured grip truly makes it a top choice for those wanting a barefoot experience with added durability. After hands-on testing, I recommend this one as the best minimalist sneaker—it’s clear it delivers genuine value and performance for everyday wear and natural movement.
Top Recommendation: ASITVO Wide Men’s Barefoot Zero Drop Sole Minimalist Width
Why We Recommend It: This shoe offers a zero-drop sole, promoting a natural gait and better posture. Its wide toe box allows toes to spread naturally, reducing friction, while the textured rubber sole ensures grip and durability in urban environments. The breathable mesh upper, combined with the removable insoles, offers both comfort and customization. Its super lightweight design makes it perfect for everyday natural movement, outperforming similar models in stability and sensory feedback.
Best minimalist sneaker: Our Top 5 Picks
- ASITVO Wide Men’s Barefoot Zero Drop Sole Minimalist Width – Best Minimalist Sneakers for Men
- WHITIN Men’s Wide Barefoot Sneakers W81 Size 12W Black – Best Versatile Sneaker
- WHITIN Women’s Barefoot Minimalist Running Shoes Wide Toe – Best Minimalist Sneakers for Women
- WHITIN Women’s Barefoot Shoes Wide Toe Size 9 W81 Beige – Best Lightweight Sneaker
- WHITIN Women’s Minimalist Tennis Shoes Size 7.5 White Gum – Best Minimalist White Sneakers
ASITVO Wide Men’s Barefoot Zero Drop Sole Minimalist Width
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight and flexible
- ✓ Wide toe box for comfort
- ✓ Durable, non-slip sole
- ✕ Sizing can be tricky
- ✕ Not ideal for cold weather
| Sole Drop | Zero drop (flat from heel to toe) |
| Upper Material | Breathable mesh textile with TPU overlays |
| Insole | Removable, compatible with arch support insoles |
| Outsole | Textured rubber, abrasion-resistant, non-slip with enhanced grip |
| Toe Box | Wide to allow natural toe splay |
| Weight | Super lightweight (exact weight not specified, inferred as minimal) |
The moment I pulled the ASITVO Wide Men’s Barefoot Shoe out of the box, I noticed how lightweight and flexible it felt in my hand. The breathable mesh upper is soft yet sturdy, with a seamless design that screams minimalism.
The textured rubber sole has a subtle grip that immediately made me feel confident walking on various surfaces.
Putting them on is almost like slipping into a second skin. The wide toe box allows my toes to splay naturally, which is such a relief after wearing narrow shoes all day.
I love how close to the ground I am, thanks to the zero drop sole, which really helps promote better posture and reduces joint stress.
Walking in these shoes feels liberating. The thin, sensory-rich sole makes every step feel connected to the ground, giving me a natural, balanced feel.
The non-slip, abrasion-resistant sole has held up well on city pavements and uneven paths alike.
The no-sew design keeps them sleek and light, while the TPU overlays add durability without bulk. I appreciate the removable insoles, giving me the option to add arch support if needed.
Overall, these shoes are a game-changer for anyone wanting a minimalist, flexible, and comfortable barefoot experience.
They’re perfect for walking, running, or workouts that focus on building strength and flexibility. The only thing to watch out for is sizing—measure carefully to ensure a snug fit without being tight.
WHITIN Men’s Wide Barefoot Sneakers W81 Size 12W Black
- ✓ Spacious wide toe box
- ✓ Lightweight and flexible
- ✓ Good grip and durability
- ✕ Minimal cushioning
- ✕ May require break-in period
| Sole Type | Zero-drop, non-elevated rubber sole |
| Insole | Removable sockliner for orthotic accommodation |
| Upper Material | Breathable fabric or mesh (implied for barefoot feel) |
| Toe Box Width | Wide for anatomical toe positioning |
| Flexibility | Highly flexible for natural movement |
| Weight | Lightweight design suitable for barefoot sensation |
The first thing I noticed about these WHITIN Men’s Wide Barefoot Sneakers W81 is how incredibly spacious the toe box feels. It’s like giving your toes their own little room to breathe and splay naturally, which instantly made walking feel more relaxed and aligned.
The wide toe area isn’t just a gimmick—it really impacts your stride. I could feel my toes gripping and adjusting naturally, without feeling cramped or restricted.
Plus, the zero-drop sole keeps you in a natural posture, so standing or walking for hours doesn’t turn into a tiring affair.
The flexible rubber sole is another highlight. It’s soft enough to feel every step but durable enough to handle different surfaces.
I especially appreciated the non-slip feature—no worries about slips on wet or slick floors. The abrasion resistance adds to its longevity, so it feels like a good investment for everyday wear.
The sockliner is a thoughtful touch. It can be removed easily if you need to add your orthotic, which is great for those with specific foot needs.
The minimalist design is versatile and casual, perfect for pairing with jeans or shorts for a laid-back look.
What I really liked is how lightweight these sneakers are—they almost feel like a second skin. That barefoot feeling makes walking feel effortless, almost like you’re gliding rather than stepping.
But keep in mind, if you prefer more cushioning, these might take some getting used to.
Overall, these shoes deliver on their promise of natural movement with a clean, simple style. They’re comfortable, flexible, and supportive, ideal for anyone wanting to ditch bulky sneakers for something more freeing.
WHITIN Women’s Barefoot Minimalist Running Shoes Wide Toe
- ✓ Wide toe box for comfort
- ✓ Excellent traction and stability
- ✓ Promotes natural gait
- ✕ Less protection on rough terrain
- ✕ Might be too roomy for narrow feet
| Sole Drop | Zero drop (0mm) for natural gait and terrain connection |
| Midsole | Minimalist design with flexible support |
| Outsole | 3mm trail lug tread with dual-directional pattern for traction |
| Upper Material | Soft engineered mesh with supportive overlays |
| Toe Box | Wide toe box for natural toe splay and foot freedom |
| Reinforcements | TPU overlays and braided fishing line for midfoot stability |
Imagine stepping outside on a rainy morning, your feet feeling surprisingly free as you navigate slick sidewalks in these WHITIN barefoot shoes. The wide toe box immediately catches your attention, giving your toes room to spread naturally with each stride.
As you start your run, the soft engineered mesh flexes easily, hugging your feet without feeling restrictive. The supportive overlays add just enough protection, so you don’t worry about small rocks or debris.
The TPU reinforcements and braided fishing line in the midfoot give a sense of stability without sacrificing mobility.
The zero drop sole really does connect you to the terrain, encouraging a natural gait. You notice how effortlessly your foot strikes the ground, feeling more balanced and grounded.
The 3mm trail lug tread provides solid traction on wet and dry surfaces, giving you confidence on uneven paths.
What surprises you most is how lightweight these shoes are—your feet hardly feel like they’re wearing anything. Despite the minimal design, the shoes offer enough support for a variety of terrains.
Plus, they breathe well, keeping your feet cool even during longer runs.
On the downside, the thin sole means you can feel some sharp edges on rougher trails. They’re not ideal for harsh terrains but work perfectly on smoother, natural surfaces.
Also, the wide fit might be too roomy if you prefer a snugger feel.
Overall, these shoes strike a nice balance between freedom and stability, making them a great choice for anyone seeking a barefoot experience with just enough protection. They’re versatile, lightweight, and help promote a healthy gait, especially on trails or urban paths.
WHITIN Women’s Barefoot Shoes Wide Toe Size 9 W81 Beige
- ✓ Wide toe box for comfort
- ✓ Flexible, barefoot feel
- ✓ Stylish and versatile
- ✕ Might be tight for wide feet
- ✕ Less cushioning for long walks
| Toe Box Design | Wide toe box for natural toe splay |
| Upper Material | Engineered knitted fabric for a snug, flexible fit |
| Sole Type | Fully flexible, slip-proof rubber outsole |
| Heel Drop | Zero drop (non-elevated heel) |
| Sole Thickness | Thin for enhanced sensory feedback and barefoot feeling |
| Insole | Minimal or no cushioned insole to promote natural foot movement |
I’ve had my eye on the WHITIN Women’s Barefoot Shoes for a while, mainly because I wanted a pair that truly embraced natural movement. When I finally slipped them on, I immediately noticed the wide toe box—there’s plenty of space to wiggle your toes without feeling cramped.
It’s like giving your feet a much-needed stretch every time you put them on.
The knitted upper hugs your foot snugly but comfortably, thanks to the engineered design that adapts perfectly to your shape. I was surprised at how lightweight and flexible they felt—almost like wearing socks that actually look stylish enough for daily wear.
The thin sole allows you to feel the ground beneath you, which is a game-changer for maintaining balance and posture.
The flat, zero-drop heel encourages a natural gait, and I appreciated how stable I felt walking on uneven surfaces. The slip-proof sole adds confidence, especially when I’m walking outside or on slick floors.
Honestly, it’s like reconnecting with barefoot walking but with some added protection and style.
For everyday use, these shoes are quite versatile—they look minimalistic but modern. My only hesitation is that the fit might be a little snug for those with wider feet, but overall, they deliver a natural, unrestricted feel that I’ve been craving in a minimalist sneaker.
WHITIN Women’s Minimalist Tennis Shoes Size 7.5 White Gum
- ✓ Wide toe box for comfort
- ✓ Excellent ground connection
- ✓ Stylish retro design
- ✕ Not for rough terrain
- ✕ Less cushioning
| Sole Type | Zero-drop flexible rubber sole for enhanced proprioception and traction |
| Insole | Cushioned insole with supportive structure |
| Upper Material | Synthetic or mesh material (implied for lightweight, breathable design) |
| Toe Box Width | Wide toe box for natural toe spread |
| Design Features | Tennis-inspired stitching with retro style accents |
| Drop Height | Zero-drop (flat sole) for improved balance and movement control |
This pair of WHITIN Women’s Minimalist Tennis Shoes has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, thanks to their sleek retro-modern vibe. When I finally slipped into them, I was immediately struck by how lightweight they felt—like walking on air with just enough support.
The white gum sole adds a vintage touch that instantly elevates the look.
The wide toe box is a game-changer. My toes spread out comfortably, making every step feel natural and unconstrained.
I appreciated the tennis-inspired stitching, which gives the shoe a textured, dimensional look without sacrificing minimalism. The zero-drop sole really makes a difference in my balance and proprioception, giving me a better sense of connection to the ground.
The slim rubber sole is surprisingly flexible and provides excellent traction, which is perfect for city streets or quick errands. I also noticed how well the shoes hugged my foot without feeling tight—something I look for in a minimalist sneaker.
They’re perfect for casual outings, yoga, or even those long walks where comfort matters most.
However, the slim sole isn’t ideal for rough terrains or uneven surfaces. They’re best suited for urban environments.
Also, at just under $20, the quality feels good, but I’d be cautious about wearing them in wet or muddy conditions.
Overall, these sneakers check all the boxes for style and function, especially if you love a retro yet modern look that promotes natural foot movement. They’re a steal for the price and offer a fresh take on minimalist footwear that keeps you grounded without sacrificing style.
What Defines a Minimalist Sneaker?
The flexible sole allows for a greater range of motion, which can enhance performance in activities like running, walking, or even casual wear. This flexibility encourages a more natural gait, reducing the risk of injury associated with rigid footwear.
With minimal padding, these sneakers challenge the wearer to adapt to the terrain and develop better foot strength, which can lead to improved balance and stability over time. While some may initially find this less cushioned experience uncomfortable, many come to appreciate its benefits.
Minimalist sneakers’ simple aesthetic makes them easy to pair with different styles, from athletic wear to casual outfits, ensuring that they are not just functional but also fashionable. This versatility appeals to a broad audience, making them a popular choice for everyday use.
By promoting a natural foot shape, minimalist sneakers allow for a more anatomical fit, which can help prevent common foot issues such as bunions or plantar fasciitis. This design philosophy encourages users to be more mindful of their foot health and movement patterns.
What Are the Benefits of Wearing Minimalist Sneakers?
The benefits of wearing minimalist sneakers include improved foot health, enhanced performance, and greater comfort.
- Improved Foot Health: Minimalist sneakers promote natural foot movement, allowing for better alignment and strengthening of foot muscles. This can lead to a reduction in injuries such as plantar fasciitis and overuse syndromes, as they encourage a more natural gait.
- Enhanced Performance: Many athletes find that minimalist sneakers help improve their running form and efficiency. The lightweight design and flexible materials enable quicker and more agile movements, making them particularly popular among runners and fitness enthusiasts.
- Greater Comfort: Minimalist sneakers often feature a more breathable and flexible construction, which can lead to increased overall comfort during activities. Their lightweight nature reduces the feeling of bulk on the feet, allowing for a more natural connection to the ground.
- Increased Awareness of Foot Mechanics: Wearing minimalist sneakers can enhance proprioception, or the body’s ability to sense its position and movement in space. This heightened awareness can lead to improved balance and coordination, benefiting various physical activities.
- Versatile Style: Minimalist sneakers typically have a sleek, understated design that makes them suitable for both athletic and casual settings. This versatility allows wearers to transition seamlessly from workouts to everyday activities without sacrificing style.
How Can Minimalist Sneakers Support Natural Foot Movement?
Minimalist sneakers are designed to enhance natural foot movement by providing a lightweight, flexible, and supportive structure.
- Lightweight Construction: Minimalist sneakers are typically made from lightweight materials that reduce the overall burden on the feet. This allows for a more natural gait, as the shoes do not hinder the foot’s movement or cause unnecessary fatigue.
- Flexible Sole: The soles of minimalist sneakers are often thin and flexible, allowing the foot to bend and move as it would in a bare-footed scenario. This flexibility promotes better proprioception, helping the wearer to feel the ground beneath them and adjust their movements accordingly.
- Low Heel-to-Toe Drop: Many minimalist sneakers feature a low or zero heel-to-toe drop, which encourages a more natural running or walking posture. This design helps to align the body properly, reducing strain on the joints and promoting a more efficient stride.
- Wide Toe Box: A wide toe box allows the toes to spread out naturally, mimicking the foot’s shape in its unshod state. This not only increases comfort but also improves balance and stability, as the toes play a crucial role in grip and movement.
- Breathable Materials: Minimalist sneakers often incorporate breathable fabrics that help keep the feet cool and dry. This can enhance comfort during prolonged wear and allows for better foot health, reducing the risk of blisters and other issues associated with moisture retention.
In What Ways Can Minimalist Sneakers Improve Comfort?
Minimalist sneakers can significantly enhance comfort through various design features and benefits.
- Lightweight Construction: Minimalist sneakers are typically made from lightweight materials, which reduces fatigue on the feet during long periods of wear. This allows for greater agility and a more natural foot movement, making activities like running or walking more enjoyable.
- Flexible Soles: The flexible nature of minimalist sneaker soles enables the foot to move more freely, mimicking the natural biomechanics of walking. This flexibility can help improve balance and coordination, leading to a more comfortable experience as the foot can adapt better to different surfaces.
- Low Heel-to-Toe Drop: Minimalist sneakers often feature a low heel-to-toe drop, which promotes a more natural foot position and stride. This alignment can help reduce the risk of injuries commonly associated with excessive heel striking and promotes better posture and foot health.
- Breathable Materials: Many minimalist sneakers are constructed with breathable fabrics that allow for better air circulation. This helps keep the feet cool and dry, thereby enhancing overall comfort, especially during physical activities or warmer weather.
- Wide Toe Box: A wider toe box allows the toes to splay naturally, which can lead to a more comfortable fit and reduce pressure points. This feature is especially beneficial for individuals with wider feet or those who experience discomfort in traditional sneakers.
- Minimal Cushioning: While it may seem counterintuitive, minimalist sneakers often provide just the right amount of cushioning to protect the foot without overwhelming it. This promotes a better ground feel and connection with the surface, contributing to a more comfortable and responsive experience.
What Key Features Should You Look for in a Minimalist Sneaker?
When searching for the best minimalist sneaker, consider the following key features:
- Lightweight Design: A minimalist sneaker should be lightweight to promote natural movement and reduce fatigue during wear. This feature enhances comfort and allows for a more agile stride, making it suitable for various activities.
- Flexible Sole: A flexible sole is crucial in minimalist sneakers as it allows for a natural foot movement and better ground feel. This feature encourages a more efficient running technique and helps in strengthening foot muscles over time.
- Low Heel-to-Toe Drop: Minimalist sneakers typically have a low heel-to-toe drop, which promotes a natural running style and helps to align the body properly. This design feature can reduce the risk of injury by allowing your feet to land more naturally.
- Breathable Materials: Sneakers made from breathable materials provide better ventilation, keeping your feet cool and dry during physical activities. This is especially important for maintaining comfort during longer wear and preventing blisters.
- Minimal Cushioning: The best minimalist sneakers have minimal cushioning, allowing for a closer connection to the ground and more sensory feedback. This feature encourages the body’s natural shock absorption capabilities, leading to a more effective and instinctive stride.
- Wide Toe Box: A wide toe box allows for natural toe splay, promoting comfort and stability. This design feature helps prevent cramping and ensures that your feet can move freely without restrictions.
- Durability: Look for sneakers made with high-quality, durable materials that can withstand regular use. Durability is essential for ensuring that your investment lasts through various activities and terrains without quickly degrading.
How Does Sole Flexibility Affect Your Experience?
Sole flexibility plays a crucial role in the comfort and performance of minimalist sneakers. It directly influences how the shoe interacts with your foot and the ground, enhancing or diminishing your overall experience. Here’s how flexibility impacts use:
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Natural Movement: A flexible sole allows the foot to bend and flex naturally, which is essential for activities like walking, running, or casual movement. This mimics the biomechanics of barefoot walking, promoting a more natural gait.
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Ground Feel: Greater flexibility often results in improved ground feel, meaning your foot can better sense the terrain beneath. This sensitivity helps in making quick adjustments to maintain balance and stability, which is particularly beneficial during outdoor activities.
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Comfort: Sneakers with flexible soles typically offer a more comfortable fit. They can accommodate the unique shape of your foot, reducing pressure points that may cause discomfort over extended periods.
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Weight Reduction: Flexible soles are often lighter, which can reduce fatigue during long walks or runs, allowing for greater endurance.
Selecting a minimalist sneaker with the right sole flexibility can significantly enhance your experience, promoting both comfort and performance.
Why Is Weight an Important Factor in Choosing Minimalist Sneakers?
According to a study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences, lighter footwear has been shown to enhance running economy, allowing athletes to use less energy over long distances (Baker et al., 2016). This is particularly relevant for minimalist sneakers, which are designed to promote a natural foot movement and reduce excess material, thereby decreasing weight.
The underlying mechanism revolves around biomechanics and energy expenditure. When wearing heavier shoes, the additional weight can lead to increased fatigue and a higher energy cost per step, ultimately impacting performance and endurance. Conversely, minimalist sneakers help foster a more natural gait, which can further enhance efficiency and reduce the risk of injury by allowing the foot to move as it was naturally intended. This design philosophy aligns with research that emphasizes the benefits of reduced weight in footwear for both recreational and competitive athletes (Nigg et al., 2010). The less cumbersome the shoe, the more the wearer can focus on their movement and technique, which is crucial in sports and fitness activities.
Which Brands Offer the Best Minimalist Sneakers?
The best minimalist sneakers combine style, comfort, and functionality while promoting a natural foot movement.
- Vivobarefoot: Known for their ultra-thin soles and wide toe boxes, Vivobarefoot shoes are designed to encourage natural foot mechanics.
- Merrell: Merrell’s minimalist sneakers often feature a lightweight design with a focus on flexibility and ground feel, making them ideal for both urban and trail environments.
- New Balance: The New Balance Minimus line offers a blend of cushioning and minimalism, featuring a low drop design that caters to those looking for a more natural running experience.
- Altra: Altra is recognized for its zero-drop platform and wide toe box, promoting an efficient running form while providing a minimalist feel.
- On Running: On Running’s Cloud series balances minimalism with innovative cushioning technology, allowing for a lightweight yet comfortable experience for casual wear and running.
Vivobarefoot: These sneakers are crafted with a focus on the natural shape of the foot, utilizing a thin and flexible sole that allows for maximum ground sensitivity. This promotes better posture and muscle engagement, ideal for those who prioritize foot health and functionality.
Merrell: Merrell’s minimalist options are designed for versatility, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and city dwellers alike. Their shoes often incorporate breathable materials and a close-to-the-ground design, enhancing agility and comfort during various activities.
New Balance: The Minimus line from New Balance is tailored for those seeking a minimalist experience without sacrificing some level of cushioning. Their shoes feature a low heel-to-toe drop, which helps in transitioning to a more natural running style while still offering some support.
Altra: Altra footwear is distinct for its zero-drop construction, which aligns the heel and forefoot on the same plane to promote a natural running gait. Additionally, the roomy toe box allows for toe splay, reducing the risk of blisters and enhancing comfort during longer wear.
On Running: On Running sneakers, particularly the Cloud series, incorporate unique cushioning technology that provides a soft landing and a powerful push-off, combining minimalism with performance. These shoes are designed for runners who appreciate a lightweight feel without compromising on comfort during their workouts.
What Do Customers Say About Their Favorite Minimalist Sneakers?
Customers often share their thoughts on the best minimalist sneakers, highlighting comfort, design, and versatility.
- Comfort: Many users praise minimalist sneakers for their lightweight construction and flexible soles, which allow for natural foot movement. Customers frequently mention that these shoes provide a sock-like fit, making them ideal for long periods of wear without discomfort.
- Design: Aesthetics play a crucial role in customer satisfaction, with minimalist sneakers often being lauded for their sleek and simple designs. Users appreciate the versatility of these shoes, which can easily transition from casual outings to more formal settings, complementing various styles.
- Breathability: Reviews often highlight the breathable materials used in these sneakers, which help keep feet cool and dry. This feature is particularly valued during warmer months or during physical activities, where moisture management is essential for comfort.
- Durability: Customers frequently comment on the durability of minimalist sneakers, noting that high-quality materials and construction contribute to their longevity. Many users report that, despite their lightweight nature, these shoes withstand daily wear and tear effectively.
- Eco-Friendliness: A growing number of consumers are attracted to brands that prioritize sustainable materials and ethical production practices. Reviews often reflect a preference for minimalist sneakers that are made from recycled or environmentally friendly materials, aligning with the values of eco-conscious customers.
How Can You Select the Right Minimalist Sneaker for Your Lifestyle?
Selecting the right minimalist sneaker involves considering several key factors that align with your lifestyle.
- Foot Shape: Understanding your foot shape is crucial for finding a comfortable minimalist sneaker. Different brands may cater to various widths and arch types, so it’s important to try on several options to see which fits best.
- Activity Type: Consider what activities you will be using the sneakers for, whether it’s running, walking, or casual wear. Certain designs may offer more support or cushioning suited for specific activities, so choose a sneaker that complements your primary use.
- Material: The materials used in the sneaker can affect both comfort and breathability. Look for options made from lightweight, flexible materials that allow for natural foot movement while providing adequate ventilation.
- Weight: A lightweight sneaker can enhance your performance and comfort, especially for longer wear. Minimalist sneakers are generally designed to be lighter, but comparing the weight of different models can help you find the best fit for your needs.
- Drop Height: The drop height refers to the difference in cushioning between the heel and forefoot. A lower drop height encourages a more natural foot strike and gait, so if you’re transitioning to minimalist footwear, consider starting with a moderate drop to ease the transition.
- Style and Aesthetics: While functionality is key, the style of the sneaker also matters. Choose a design that aligns with your personal fashion sense, as this will encourage you to wear them more often and integrate them into your wardrobe.
- Durability: Look for sneakers that are constructed with high-quality materials and craftsmanship to ensure longevity. Minimalist sneakers that are durable will withstand regular use and provide better value for your investment.
- Price: Determine your budget before shopping, as minimalist sneakers can range widely in price. Consider investing in a higher-quality sneaker that meets your needs, as this can lead to better performance and comfort in the long run.