By being flexible on color I was able to try the Go Run and the Go Run Ride Ultra for the price of one pair. After visiting the Skechers store, trying on, and reading reviews, I was unsure about the Go Run. It seemed like the heel drop was going to put me back to toddler walking stage! C'mon, forget about it and just use the shoe!. The heel drop is no big deal and the shoe, the fit, and the way it runs is excellent.
So far, after a few weeks, I prefer the original Go Run to the Ride. It has a more barefoot feel and really does encourage mid to forefoot strides. The Skechers store didn't have the Go Run and said it was changing. I think the changes may be more for sales and marketing rather than performance.
The Ride is a nice shoe and I like it too, but it feels much more typical of the newer light weight conventional shoes. I rate both shoes five stars but don't be afraid to try the original Go Run.
Forefoot room has always been an issue for me once I have run a few miles and my foot expands. These shoes really accommodate the swelling nicely. Just as they say, it allows my foot full range of motion as you would get in barefoot running. But I get no heel slippage with the open forefoot. That makes the shoe feel like slippers but run like the best shoes. The shoes are very flexible giving the barefoot feel but do give support on strike and push-off. I tried the Bionic and it was too barefoot for me.
If you're looking for a great shoe with the best of both lightweight and barefoot, give these a try. If you just want a light great fitting shoe the Ultra is nice. For a real change, try the Go Run original.