the Soft footbed is very comfortable! I have the Birkenstock Gizeh that I have worn to death since last summer and still love those but these are not hard and no need to break in as I had to do with the Gizeh! I get heel pain from plantar fasciitis if I wear flat shoes, so Birkenstocks have been a miracle shoe for arch support. I plan to wear these around Disney World and I know they will be super comfortable and no heel pain!