If these shoes were still on sale I would buy another pair. I have a couple of Vibrams five toe and these have the same foot bed and sole. They are comfortable, light weight and easy on/off.
The fabric does have an odd, cardboard like feel to it but when on the foot they are not hard. There are all kinds of warnings provided by New Balance about breaking in to the shoe. From experience...take it slow. You do not need to take it as slow as recommended but don't go for a long hike the first couple of times.
Enjoy...I hope they go on sale again soon!!!