This is my second pair of Bikilas, third pair of Vibrams.  I liked the original Bikilas better with the velcro strap over the new style laces, but the laces aren't a deal breaker.  Vibrams are also great for travel because they take up much less space in luggage compared to regular running shoes.<br /><br />Until I switched to these shoes, I was having problems with knee pain and and plantar fasciitis due to poor running form.  I was unable to run for almost 6 months due to these problems. Once I healed, I switched to Vibrams. These shoes forced me to change to the barefoot running style, and I've never had pain since (except when I step on a sharp rock, ouch!).<br /><br />If you are new to barefoot running, Vibram now has an introductory pair of barefoot shoes you should use first, called the Bikila EVO.  However, when I started barefoot running, I started right off with the Vibrams. I'm not going to provide instructions on how to transition, but please do your research for properly adapting to barefoot running.  The last thing you need is a fracture or plantar fasciitis.  Also, for sizing, you may want to try them on in a shop first; they fit very differently than regular running shoes.