I approve these Bates side-zip for their light weight, breathability and weight distributing soles and heels. If I can steer just one person suffering from foot pain, to absolute relief,  from having to walk upon hard surfaces in the course of their employment I will be pleased.

 My 'association' with these marvelous boots dates to 2003. I finally 'lucked-into' this style while researching various types of footwear as, at the time, my employment saw me out on the factory floor for up to 11 hours daily. I knew from the moment that I laced them up that something was different. The extraordinary feel of the contoured fit gave me hope that I could walk comfortably. I credit the lugged sole for equalizing the pressure upon the bottoms of my feet. I wore the pair, in black, which I had selected that day out of the store to begin the short break-in period. The break-in period, for me, went on for just three days. I noticed the proverbial 'spring-in-my-step' from the start. I could walk about on the industrial reinforced concrete floors of my workplace and not feel pain or fatigue in my feet even after 11 or12 hours when compared to before I had found these ultra-lights. Strides and footfalls are more natural owing to the light weight of these boots. I do not think that I could have continued through to my retirement, and have remained ambulatory, without the Bates 8-inch ultralight side zip boots. I still wear these boots, now having a selection of three colors to choose from, around the home for doing outside chores and just enjoying a walk.