I chose this shoe because the plum is not very noticeable and the overall look is neutral.  I often wear the shoes all day with whatever clothes I'm wearing so did not want the wild colors in most other styles.  I usually wear an 8 SS in shoes, but  wearing athletic shoes with Thorlo thick hiking socks makes the AA wearable.  I mistakenly ordered 8AA,  intended to get the 8-1/2 to accommodate the socks and planned to return the 8--until I tried them on with Thorlo moderate walking socks and they fit fine.  If used for running, they might seem short but the larger size would slip on my heel, these slip slightly.  The shoes fit much better than the New Balance I'd worn for years, not as bulky, and do not even need an insert. They are much softer under foot.  Love the grey laces and mesh because they won't look soiled quickly like white does.  I wish this shoe had not been replaced by a later model because it is the only one I found that was suitable.  Too bad so many people seem to want the crazy colored shoes but hopefully ASICS will make a neutral one--not white.  I'm very happy with the shoe and recommend it.