The Merrell Vapor Glove is one of the smartest and best running shoes on the mass market. The Vibram toe box and outsole are durable, but the low profile lets you feel everything in your path. This is a barefoot experience that minimal shoes offer. Essential protection with maximum mechanical benefits. No socks, no breaking. No problem. Keep reading my reasoning and how I ended up barefoot. I'm a longtime amateur runner who drank a lot of the $150 softride potion. I could never keep up with the "changes" in my pace or fix all the problems in my running rhythm. One day I decided to discard all my experiences and act differently. I spent time reading reviews and cautionary tales about the risks of running without layers of cushioning and micro-suede between me and the road. I cautiously bought my first paid Vapor gloves after reading reviews that said newbies would have a hard time getting used to them. Pure joy followed. I felt like a kid running out the back door again and doing whatever I wanted. My feet touched the ground. I quickly closed the gap to allow my tendons and muscles to recover and listened to my feet when they got tired or too hot. The result is that my legs are stronger than ever, my feet are strong and firm, my posture has improved, and my stride is light and quick. I don't break records, but I LOVE to run and look forward to running a mile or two. Take a jump. take some Walk slowly and enjoy nature!