These shoes, while heavy and not that attractive, have made a  difference in my posture and have helped finally get that pesky plantar fasciitis healed. I think it has to do with the weight making the ankle stronger and the stiffness of the shoe not letting my feet pronate. They are great for standing, sitting (like having a footstool on your feet if you're short!) and walking on flat, even surfaces. Not so good for downhill walking. Maybe with practice. I am already looking at the sandals for summer. The best part is when you take them off and put on running shoes, the lack of weight makes walking and running like being on air. Love them.