I can't say too much about winter running as here in Oregon it doesn't really get too bad. I don't like to not enjoy my runs so if it's too cold I throw on my huaraches, and if needed socks. As far as hecklers, there are two kinds in my world, family, and non-family. Non-family I just ignore. Plain and simple. Sometimes I smile and wish them a nice day. This always throws them off because they can't figure out why I am so damn happy. Now the family hecklers are a little more difficult, but most of my family has accepted me as a weirdo that barefoot running seems to help with my back problems. I think they accept it because they have seen me at my worst (only able to walk with a cane), and now after explaining to them the possible (I only say possible because not everyone experiences the benefits I have) benefits of barefoot running and them seeing how much better I've improved they just kind of give me grief in a joking manner now. Be patient with family and explain what they don't understand. Let your improvement prove to them what you've been saying. They will accept it eventually. It took my wife 7-8 months before she accepted it. She finally realized having her husband able to function like a normal 34 year old was much better than how I had been. Not to say she wants me to walk in stores barefoot, but she supports me being barefoot the rest of the time.