I have loved Merrell shoes since I first tried them 15 years ago.  Sometimes you just find a brand that seems designed for your foot, and feels great no matter which style you buy.  That is Merrell for me.  I bought these shoes actually to use as "sandals" in the office.  I work in the Middle East and sometimes its really hot.  I figured if I was wearing white socks, with these gray shoes, then my feet could breathe all day, and no one would notice they are just mesh.  But of course they were designed for rivers, and I am impressed with how sturdy they are.  They look like they will easily handle the abuse you dish out when walking over rocks and logs in a river.  I don't expect to ever use them for their intended purpose, but I have no doubt they are well suited to it, and would not disappoint me.