I began wearing New Balance 1442 when they were first introduced.  They are much more comfortable than Skechers or any other fitness shoe that I tried.  The leather is soft and supple and the shoes feel instantly "soooo good" when they are first worn.  My job requires walking all day long and these shoes carry me through to quitting time with no pain.  Great for outdoor exercise walking year-round, as well as fitness workouts, in an assortment of colors.