After years of not willing to fork out some $$ for expensive sandals/flip flops, I did so after reading an article about several styles of orthopedic ones. I cannot walk for any length of time in malls, grocery stores, hotels or any place with concrete flooring or pavement such as sidewalks. My back cannot withstand the pressure and I pay after such outings with severe back and hip pain at night losing sleep and being in agony at times. These shoes allow me to do these activities for a much longer time with little or no repercussions at night. They look great and the foot support is awesome. I will never buy another pair of flat shoes/sandals again unless they are orthopedic.