I have VERY flat feet. Vasque hiking shoes are very stiff and the built in arch support isn't over done.  That combination makes this the perfect shoe for me.  I have these, and a pair of Breeze boots I've had for years.  I've never owned a better made or more comfortable shoe.  And the Gortex is truely waterproof, walk through puddles, the stream, doesn't even matter.  Worth the cost if you have a less than perfect feet.  Walking anywhere if better, not just hiking.