If you try barefoot or barefoot shoes, transition really, really slowly. Find some grass and run no more than an eighth of a mile at first. Landing on your forefoot instead of your heel is a very, very different feeling and takes a long time to get used to. I can do three+ miles now, but at about 4 miles my calves have got nothing left and my heels start coming down too hard.
It's a great way to preserve your joints, but it is TOUGH on your muscles for a while.
you may have convinced my flat footed self to give them a try
