Many runners have been switching over to running barefoot, or with vibram’s, and researchers have begun to notice that doing so will drastically change the way they run! Watch the video below to see the difference in running with shoes and without. Please note that running without shoes can take some getting used to and you will probably need to train yourself to land on your forefoot instead of your heel. If you are able to train yourself to do this, you may notice that your knees hurt less or that your shin splints slowly start to dissipate. This is because you are absorbing more of the impact with your forefoot before it has time to reach your joints higher up your leg.
If you have time, be sure to check out the five finger's website. They have information about running barefoot, the mechanics of their shoes and will have store locators (as vibram's are not sold at large chain shoe stores). Happy running!