There is so much arguing over the value or lack thereof for barefoot running, I have to wonder if there really is a large disparity or people really just like to argue.
This is an experimental survey. Assume that you are on your way to becoming a world class 10,000 meter runner. Your primary goal in life, right now, is to become the best. Your technique is pretty good and you usually only have minor aches and pains that can be managed. You have a heavier pair of shoes for most of your mileage and lighter shoes the faster your workouts are.
How much barefoot running will you do, as a percent of your total mileage? Choose from the following:
A) Zero, there's absolutely no value of training barefoot over training in shoes.
B) About 5%, it feels good to stretch the feet with some strides on the grass.
C) 10-25%, you like to go on 2-3 runs per week without the shoes.
D) 50%, you consider barefoot running so valuable that you'd run even more if your feet were stronger.
E) 95+%, your feet can not be contained in shoes, only except when you need the spikes for extra traction in the fastest workouts and in races.