I have owned 3 pairs of Shape-ups so far. The first lasted for about a year of hard use and I have since bought a pair I use solely on the treadmill, and another (white pair) I use just about the rest of the time. I have found them to be one of the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned and I do believe they help in toning. I've never had a problem walking in them at all, in fact, they're the only shoes I will walk in.