I have to do a lot of walking on campus between my 5 classes in a day.  It's tiring and uncomfortable if it's raining -- rainboots usually have flimsy support.  I took my new vail boots on their first test drive and they did really well!  My calves hurt if I don't have supportive footwear and supporting my arch just right is what Danskos are all about.  Very comfy for schlepping.  I can see what other reviewers were saying about them being so stiff they were hard to get on.  But I am also imagining that they will get a little more flexible with use.  I also noticed that one felt "snugger" than the other, but again I think this will improve with wear.  To me, the stiffness is a minor drawback.