These socks are comfortable and fit my almost size 9 feet just fine.  I was worried they would slip down when I was walking with tennis shoes, but they do not and they kept my feet comfortable and dry three days at Disney.  I don't know that the little padded back does anything, at least on my shoes it doesn't and it makes them slightly less attractive in my eyes.  I was excited for the arch support band.  I thought it would be a nice bonus, but I don't think it is tight enough to do anything, so that is just hype in my opinion, as once the sock are on it does not feel tighter or more supported in my arch.  They seem like quality and durable socks that will last me a long time.