I purchased these after reading a review from Runner's World. I wanted a very light shoe that was similar to a barefoot shoe, but without the fitted toes that many barefoot shoes have. These are a very lightweight, breathable mesh type shoe. The elastic band across the arch forms to your foot, making a snug, breathable fit. They slip on and off easily, and the insole makes them extremely comfortable. Since they are sockless shoes, they tend to smell bad fairly quickly. I just wear them in the shower, then pull the insoles out to let them dry separately. These are not what you would think of as a "running" shoe- unless you are a barefoot runner. The insoles are there to make sure rocks don't bruise your feet, I think. The bladed sole does grip beautifully. After my chiropractor recommended barefoot running, I switched to these instead of my usual Asics Kayanoes, and I have had zero hip and knee issues since. I am on my second pair, and will be buying another.