I bought these as a 2nd pair for home becuase I'm leaving the first pair I bought at work to run in. I'm not a serious runner, just for fitness. 5km, 2-4 times a week on hardpack gravel trails. They're definitely an extra workout for my lower legs but I've gotten used to them in the past half year, even in snow and rain. Actually I like them in snow because I feel there's less chance I'll roll my ankle in uneven terrain. I've also run in these on really rocky mountain trails and I feel they provide fine protection against sharp rocks but give an added security of sure-footedness. I didn't have any joint pain running in regular trail runners and I don't have anything now. The first set I got in my regular 9-1/2 and they fit pretty snug. I ran a couple of times without socks and got a few odd blisters, so now I use a pair of really thin smartwools with them. The 2nd set I got a 1/2 size larger and always wear socks with them and they still fit nice a snug. I'm leery of running on pavement with them so I just haven't done it, but I wear them around as casual shoes all weekend just 'cause they look cool. It's like wearing a pair of modern moccasins. Overall I'm really pleased with these shoes, and I like the idea that they'll pack snugly into a suitcase so I can take them on business trips and run on the treadmill at hotels. I do think it's ironic that I bought new shoes to run with 'less', and I wouldn't buy these at retail, but that's the way I feel about most recreational gear.