These are simply amazing shoes. As minimalist trail running shoes, they provide incredible flexibility and traction with outstanding ground-feel. Despite the thin midsole they still provide reasonable protection from stones and other sharp objects, though the lack of rock plate and the outsole "pod" design underside will definitely let some poke through. Probably best for cooler temperatures as the leather will not breathe like the mesh versions. I haven't tested water-resistance but rain does soak into the leather fast, so be sure to treat it with nik-wax before using otherwise they will probably wet-out quick in puddles.

They are well-built from quality materials - the stitching is incredible, and the design is obviously made thoughtfully with regards to the needs of minimalist runners. They also look very sharp and can be worn out with pride. I am mostly wearing them now as winter shoes to train my feet for minimalist running.

Fit is low volume, narrow in the heel and midfoot and medium width in the forefoot. True to length wearing a thin sock or barefoot. Toe-box is wider than most and rounded to help prevent toe-pinching and allow toe-splay, but not as wide as it could be. I went up a half-size to accomodate this so the shoes are a little long on me but still fit well because they are low volume - I have low volume feet that look like flippers. If you don't have wide and squared toes you should probably order your measured size. They fit slight looser around the toes than the mesh version because they do not have the tight rubber band across the top, something many people will appreciate.

Highly impressed overall.

EDIT after several months of wear - I've used these in the rain now including cycling in a downpour. They kept water out very well, but the leather soaks up the water and eventually gets wet. If treated with protectant they're more than fine for the odd puddle or damp grass, but will eventually get wet. The uppers are holding up great, look fantastic still. The tongue has a tendency to shift and fold so you need to be careful when tying them to make sure it's flat. Also, the lacing is a bit fussy, but feels good once it's laced properly. The midsole has softened up a lot and is very flexible at the forefoot, though the thicker heel is much stiffer. Lastly, the vibram outsole is definitely wearing quickly running/walking mostly on asphalt, and doesn't have good traction on ice but great traction on wet asphalt. Still love these shoes and get many compliments on the looks. Too bad they discontinued them.