These are very nice shoes.  Just bought them on sale and put them away for the fall.  The dip at the sides does appear to be as deep as in the photo.  Took them for a test walk.  They're comfortable--like most Earth Shoes, well made and attractive. I imagine I'll be wearing them on a regular basis as I do with the Earth boots I buy each season.  They are just so comfortable compared to most other shoes/boots. I gravitate toward and rarely wear my other boots.