It is ironic thatMerrells slogan is go barefoot while they are selling shoes. I understand that they are trying to make money but I disagree with all "barefoot" or minimalist shoes, especially for beginners. The educationidea is ok butoveruse injurys are still going to occur because these shoesallow people to push themselves to hard. When your barefoot, your pads provide restriction and are a usefull guideline as to how your internals are doing.