I was worried the shoes wouldn't be comfortable enough for standing up all day. When I got the box they were well-packaged, but seemed "stiff" and with no cushioning at all. But I decided to keep them-wore them back to work that day (got 'em at lunch).... They are GREAT! The holes in the top are great for breathability, I mean, my feet felt cool. Won't be great if I ever step in a puddle or if it is raining. They sole has no grip on wet or slick surfaces, a negative. The shoes come with extra laces (I got the black & white shoes, came with add'l red laces) and the laces have reflective "dots" on them, which is a nice feature. The shoes didn't need to be broken-in, they were great outta the box. *Just to give an idea of sizing: I ordered the size 6.5 (Women's size 8) though I usually wear 8.5, because a review said they run big. Glad I did. Could have gone a half-size smaller still, in the length- BUT not in the width. So I suggest ordering a half-size smaller than your normal athletic-sneaker-running shoe size.