I wouldn't describe them as barefoot really mate (unlike the Trail Glove). They are too stiff and there is a few mm of cushion. However, they are zero drop. They suit someone like me who likes barefoot shoes but doesn't like bruised heels (in other words, softees). I reckon they would be a great Bob shoe... and they are actually stiff enough to take something like Kahtoola micro spikes. I went for the GTX version mainly because I wanted to try a waterproof fell/trail shoe to see if is better having dry feet in the winter months.