I already owned a pair of these great feeling minimalist shoes, when I puchased my second pair from Amazon. I made a mistake with the first pair.  In keeping with the principles of a minimalist shoe, I purchased the first pair to fit comfortably, but quite snug. I use them to run in and discovered quite quickly that the more miles I put in, the more aware of my large toe being right up against the shoe I became. If any of you run, you know that your feet will swell and I had no room for that. I went up 1/2 size and am very happy. The first pair is still usable as they are comfortable to walk in, just not roomy enough to run.

The Merrells from Amazon were cheaper than the first ones I purchased at a retail store and then with the fact that I had no tax and free shipping, I saved $20 and that also makes me happy.  All in all, these are a great pair of shoes.