Vic, funny!
I can no longer clime down mountains I used to hike up. The pain was so intense when my toes hit the front of the shoe. I tried several styles to no avail. Finally went to the Dr. and after x-rays, found out I have a neuroma in both feet between my 3-4 toes. The pain is worse than child birth!
Dr. said I had 2 choices: Surgery or no climbing down mountains where the pressure was so bad. YUCK! I chose no climbing mountains.
Well, a few months ago, I met a man who has the same thing going on and he wears an expensive toe less show like yours and has no problem. So they are on my wish list.