This thong has arch support. It is comfortable. Foot doesn't slide and thong sole doesn't slap while walking as foot is well supported. Amazon's price was $10 below - (and with free shipping) from other online stores (think Zappos and others)and our local higher end shoe stores. If you wear a size and a half, order size without the half - 8 1/2? it's an 8. This shoe can be carefully washed in the machine - but not too often - better to clean it up manually - it will keep looking good for several years.