Minimal/Barefoot style running shoes . . .

[GLC1968]

Oak, I think those NB shoes you have must be on a different last - or maybe on the same one as the Minimus road? I couldnt' wear the road - it was too narrow.

This is a little comparison I did when I was trying to talk a friend into considering the Leming:


(NB Minimus left, Leming right)
For me, the way the NB Minimus flares out a little on the big toe side was critical to my running comfort.

[Crankin]

I don't wear any of the minimalist shoes, but I will comment on the ballet flats.
They are not so comfortable for some people (like me) and can cause foot pain and other issues, especially after standing in them for a long time. I had to throw mine away. Flip flops bother me, too. I need cushioning.
Not a problem, as I generally wear shoes with a small heel if I am not wearing athletic type shoes or sandals.