So, I have run about 100 miles in the Kinvaras to date, and I really like them.  After running barefoot and in Vibram VFFs for the past year, I decided to go with the Kinvaras.  I needed a more substantial shoe to get me through the Chicago winter and also decided I need more cushion for long runs.  I read a lot of reviews online (special shout out to runblogger.com) and checked out a number of shoes.  The Kinvara fit the bill.  I would not describe this as a minimalist running shoe because it has quite a bit of cushion.  What the Kinvara is is a stripped-down, lightweight trainer.  Some have said it is only good for short to mid-distance runs, but I can easily see using this as a half marathon or marathon shoe.  What I like about the Kinvara is the lack of bells and whistles.  It gives me exactly what I need, which is a light, well ventilated, wide in the toebox running shoe with just enough padding to take the edge off but not so much that I am forced to heel strike.  One thing that needs to be pointed out is that, despite having a 4mm heel/toe drop, it is still pretty easy to heel strike in the Kinvaras.  Mine are definitely showing some wear on the edge of the heel despite my constant attempts to achieve a mid-foot landing.  I don't always heel strike, but, when I get tired at the end of a run, I get a little sloppy and my heel starts to hit.  It is definitely easier to mid foot strike in the Kinvara than say the Brooks Adrenaline or Asics 2140.  I will still run barefoot and in VFFs when the snow melts, but for long runs of over say 5 miles, I think this will be my go-to shoe - at least until I can get my feet into a pair of the new Merrill Trail Gloves.  Also, the price was unbeatable.