I have troublesome feet with a variety of problems and have difficulty finding shoes that are comfortable.  These have several advantages.  My feet are flat, I'm prone to plantar fasciitis and I have rigid joints at my big toes among other things.  I need a shoe with a generous toe box since my feet swell sometimes, but my heels are narrow.  Finding just the right shoe is a real challenge.  I've worn other styles of New Balance shoes that are discontinued--and I have to admit the quality of leather is not what it used to be--but in this particular shoe all the right things seem to be there.  There is good arch support and a nicely cushioned insole and outer sole in both heel and toe.  The shoe has a narrower heel than most New Balance styles.

The width is very true to size although the shoe is a tiny bit shorter than others I have in the same size.  The arch is perfectly placed, but my toe almost touches the tip, which it doesn't in my other shoes.  Still the difference is small.  For me they work, but if you're pushing at the toe of your current size, I'd order a half size larger.

The shoes offer cushioned support all around my feet and unlike others, I can wear them all day without my feet tiring or hurting.  For me that's a miracle.  I'm so impressed with them, I ordered two more pairs.  I'm a little gun shy after the other styles I liked were discontinued.

The only mesh on the shoe is around the heel collar.  There is no mesh on the body of the shoe, but my feet don't get hot, so even though the leather seems practically artificial, it must breathe.

All in all, I find these shoes a great buy and very comfortable. I definitely recommend them