Some runners don't like a heavily cushioned shoe.  This shoe has a forward heel angle, and great gel and cushion all around, making for a bouncy soft run.  I have lower back problems and these shoes seem to absorb all major shock from asphalt running.  I've met runners who might not like it, as one guy said he likes to feel connected to the running surface.  I ran my best time in a half marathon in these shoes.  According to a video on this shoe Asics put all of their technology in this shoe and all of their other models are derived from it.  BTW I run in my natural size with this shoe, and I have Morton's toe (that's your second primary toe being longer than the big toe), so the toe box has plenty room