text: I have worn LEMS shoes every day since their inception and have found the many pairs to be outstanding---however this current model represents an evolution of the product which is all too common among makers of &#34;alternative&#34; footwear. Earlier versions were of minimal construction, as close to barefoot as possible while still having a minimal covering--very supple and close fitting. What I have is more like a sneaker--it is more rigid and &#34;built up&#34;. Not as clunky as a conventional sneaker , but clunky compared to Lems originals.  The same thing happened to Tiger running shoes back in the 60's--they also added more support, thicker soles, etc.  Does the public demand this??<br /><br />I hope Lems returns to a more minimal shoe but I suspect that they won't and that they won't explain why.