Very surprised at all the good reviews. I bought these as new running shoes and I have never worn Asics before but heard they were a good brand. Just received them in the mail, tried them on and adjusted the laces and was surprised to discover that they are very rigid around the heel. It feels like there are metal inserts around the back of the shoe. Maybe that's for ankle support (?) but it's incredibly uncomfortable. Parts on the side of the shoe rub as well. They are also so much more narrow than I had anticipated and I have narrow feet. I think it's because the shoe is so thick. I wear a size 11 shoe normally and ordered an 11.5 for running. Very disappointed and will be returning. I recommend trying these on in a store before you buy them like me.