For Eric’s birthday I got him a pair of FiveFinger shoes. The shoes are made to truly give you a barefoot experience with increased traction and comfort. Sizing is very important because they literally fit like a glove on your feet. The Vibram Five Fingers are designed to promote better foot mechanics—naturally. As such, they're intended to be worn directly against the sole of your foot, allowing your foot to move as if barefoot. 

Eric reports back that they feel fantastic and I think I have finally figured out a way to get him hiking with me on St. John.