It seems amazing, considering how well these work, that no one thought of this before -- I mean the zippered outer layer, which is like that of cross-country ski boots, providing protection from moisture and cold, without in any way limiting movement. The last of this shoe is the same as that of the Road Glove, so it is slightly roomier than the Trail Glove, and also has a thicker midsole under the arch, something that many barefoot runners don't much care for. Nor did I, when I first put the shoe on, but I really don't notice it when running, as I stay on my forefeet. I do notice the absence of the rock plate in the Trail Gloves, and this seems a good thing in wintry conditions, as it allows the sole to flatten on the ground, providing better grip on slippery surfaces. The sole, although it looks and feels like that of the Road Glove, is made of a softer compound, and thus works well on slippery surfaces (much, much better in this regard than Trail Gloves, which can be very slippery in winter conditions). I had a chance already to do 2 runs in these shoes in wet, cold slippery conditions, and I was grinning all the way through! Stepping in water and slush for 5 miles didn't make my feet wet or cold. And, as someone who hates think socks, it is great to have a shoe that doesn't require them for winter running. I'm most pleased with this shoe. http://www.alexandertechnique-running.com