I chose these shoes now, because I have a fear that they are going to be phased out related to all the hype surrounding them.  The Shape-up line has been a life-saver for me, as a nurse.  I work 12-hour days, on my feet all night, and of course, these are simply "covered" concrete floors we work on.  My back and knees were killing me, and the "cush" of these shoes has saved my job, literally. This pair is slightly 1/4" lower than my first pair.  However, I can't imagine working a shift now, without having them.  I never had any issue with balance or problems getting used to them, but maybe walking so much anyway made the difference. I recommend these to everyone who works long hours on concrete floors.