Someone passed these shoes on to me, and at first I thought it felt weird when I walked--but I soon got used to them, and now I hate to have to take them off. As a wearer of the classic open-back Birkenstock for decades, I like the fact that my feet have plenty of "breathing room" (but still some support) as when I wear my Birks, yet, unlike my Birks, they don't slip off so easily when I walk. I wear them without socks, and they're great for around the house and in the garden--they don't soil or stain easily, thanks to Nubuck--and for pretty much all day-to-day wear (but not for long walks, which naturally require more support and cushioning). They look great--high style for an old Birkenstock wearer!--and seem to go well with everything: pants, shorts, and even casual dresses. I'm such a big fan that I bought a second pair from Amazon for "backup."