This is the first pair of "barefoot" shoes I've owned, and after two years of everyday wear I am mightily impressed.
I simply can't speak highly enough if them! My back and legs feel so much better without the perverse rise forced by popular shoes, and I work on concrete/tile all day.
You don't need foam padding when you meet the surface of the earth at a natural angle like this.

MY SINGLE COMPLAINT: and the one I hope Merrill addresses-- is the shoelaces-- If only they would offer a velcro strap/hood or something over the knot area so that the cuff of your pants doesn't constantly rub up against the knot, working it loose.

I have to tie these shoes **at least** six times a day-- they are so flexible that between ankle movement and pant-leg rub it works loose constantly, it's a serious hassle-- but I put up with it because the general quality of the fit is so comfortable-- that said, c'mon guys-- give me a way to fix it!

Overall, very well done-- I'm a loyal customer.