Third run with the TSLA Baretreks – note here that I use gel inserts, hence the (as close to) of the title: with T1D, I have to be careful with my feet and avoid any and all injury to them as best I can; the Baretreks + Scholls or whatever brand CVS has in stock is my happy middle ground – and I'm sold: my ankles dont hurt as much; it's a totally different grip on the varied surfaces – even the tiny jabby stones of the hillside running trail don't bother me – I traverse each time I venture out (asphalt, gravel, mud, grass, ditch, unplowed cornfield); and, while it may be my imagination, it feels like I can move faster. I'll be curious to see how long each pair lasts – though it's not like it's the end of the world to replace them ($40+/- a pair) with greater frequency than regular running shoes. Worth the trade-off, so far.