I recently had to retire my Sperry's due to smell and holes in the soles.  Unfortunately, the particular model I liked was discontinued.  I can't wear the majority of Sperry's shoes because they have hard leather backs which destroy my Achilles tendon area.  I have read up as much as I can on this and it seems like I am just out of luck when shoes are made this way--even when I commit the mortal sin of wearing socks and boat shoes my heels bleed.  I have made sure that they fit properly but still this occurs.  These shoes have a soft back line which doesn't irritate my heel/achilles area (which my former Sperrys had).  That being said wow are these comfortable.  The adidas comfort-whatever-it-is is actually quite amazing.  These are unquestionably some of the most easy on the feet shoes I have ever worn.  I highly recommend them on the comfort factor alone.  I do think the black rubber on the back is not ideal but I am willing to compromise on that.  All around these are a terrific shoe that was worth the price tag.