nike free run+

Running barefoot may reduce your risk of injury, some say.

Nike Free Run+ is significantly cooler-looking sneaker that simulate barefoot conditions, which purportedly helps strengthen your feet, without putting your soles at the mercy of cut glass and other hazards.

Since the first model debuted in 2005, Nike has refined the Free design to great effect. For instance, the laces are positioned asymmetrically, which relieves pressure on the top of your foot, and the grooves in the sole are deeper and wider, which forces you to use your toes more. Nike+ has been incorporated into the Frees, meaning you can insert Nike's iPod-compatible sensor into a special groove in the sole to track your progress, count calories and gauge your workout.

We tested the midrange Nike Free Run+. The company's earlier models provide even less support (thus are even better at simulating barefoot experience), but unless you're already an experienced barefoot runner, the Free Run+ is a good place to start.