Years ago, I bought another pair of Avia sport shoes as soon as the ones I was wearing wore out. They were so comfortable, I turned to buying them two or three pairs at a time so as to be ready for the inevitable. Then I stopped wearing that kind of shoe. Now, because of weight (too much) and strength (too little) and a few other things, I need them again. Not available anymore. I hadn't bought enough Avias to last 20 or 30 years, so I looked up walking shoes on some site recommended for serious walkers and found reference to these shoes. Wow! What a difference half a lifetime can make. They're extremely comfortable. One really important feature is the Velcro closures. Don't have to ask someone to tie my shoes a newly arthritic knee requires. Just slip my feet in and pull the flaps over. Ready, set, go.