Just my own little experience... I am in the middle of switching from Asics Nimbus 12 ("puff clouds") to Mizuno Precision 12 (not minimalist, but getting close to that end of the spectrum: extremely responsive and flexible, far less cushioning, no crazy big heel). The running shoe store woman suggested Brooks Ghost 4 as an intermediate step on the "less support" spectrum, but I really wanted to go all the way. And ditch my custom orthotics!

I wanted less shoe because I felt like a lot had changed since my Nimbus days. I've lost about 10 pounds (I'm short, so that means a lot!). I've been working *a lot* on form -- to the point where I can now adjust my stride to correct for pain during a run fairly easily. I haven't been injured in 3 years. I've made corrections for my Morton's Foot. And I just wasn't convinced all that padding was working in my favor. So I thought I'd make a change.

After 2 track workouts in the Precisions, I've noticed...
1) The way the shoe is made makes it nearly impossible to strike with my heel. Yay!
2) My times are significantly faster -- about 30 seconds per mile if I'm doing 1600s. Yay, again!
3) I feel much more sore in the thighs after, and also have some achilles and right ankle soreness. I'm hoping that improves.
4) I have no pain during my runs. None!
5) My feet feel like wings, and I absolutely love running in them!

I would love to wear them for longer runs, but I afraid of injuring myself by changing too much at once. (I'm in the middle of HM training, and my "shortest" long run over the next month is 6 miles...)

I think it's worth a try, but listen to your body. For me, the change in heel height is pretty significant and I could see it being a real problem if I can't contain my eagerness. Good luck!