Unwilling participant. For a couple of years in the early 10's I swore by Merrell's zero drop shoes. I hated then, and still do now, the chunky look and feel o

Unwilling participant. For a couple of years in the early 10's I swore by Merrell's zero drop shoes. I hated then, and still do now, the chunky look and feel of running shoes. It didn't make sense to me. Like many at the time, I had heard of and read parts of Barefoot Running by Michael Sandler and became convinced that the appropriate way to 'RETVRN' was to use a more minimal shoe. It worked, but had consequences. I was able to do ~8-10 miles with ease and remember telling my wife that "the only thing that really stops me from running further is time and boredom". It was an experience that I really hope to return to one day. I run w/Hoka Speedoat's now. These are arguably some of the largest most cushioned shoes on the market. Without moderately cushioned shoes and a good solid vibram trail lug, I find myself with achey knees. I undoubtedly attribute it to my long miles with the Merrells. I'd love to not use Hoka's anymore.