Really rated a 4 & 1/2 because I would like a little more cushion in the ball of the foot area.  I have worn Alchemy for 2 years now (after my all time favorite shoes were discontinued) and find them to be the best available  for my high arches with over pronation. The shoe is very stable. My previous pair was series 9 and the 12 is almost the same except they don't seem to be as cushiony. I use an insert with arch support which does give me a little more forefront cushioning. They run true to size but I purchase them 1/2 size larger to accomodate the insert.