Ten years ago, before a two-week walking vacation, I bought a pair of Merrell Jungle Mocs. A few days later, my husband went and bought an identical pair. Ever since then, these have been our primary shoes -- well, anytime I need actual shoes. (In Arizona, we wear sandals most of the time.) They are the ultimate in _walking shoes_, with no hot spots, true comfort, and slip on-and-off ease (I wouldn't wear anything else for going through airport security). They look good, too, in a geeky or natural-girl way; certainly they look fine with slacks, enough so that I never questioned wearing them to a client meeting. (Though even I wouldn't wear these with a pretty dress.)

It has taken 10 years, _10 years_, for these to get worn out enough that I needed to find new walking shoes. They have been through everything, from a downpour in Paris (which demonstrated that the shoes are watertight...) to a hike up the side of the mountain to King Ludwig's castle in Bavaria. And it's only the bottom of the shoes that are truly worn; the top still looks just fine.

With a few walking-centric trips coming up, it was time to get another set of walking shoes. And while I looked halfheartedly at other brands and models, there really was no question. I bought another pair of grey Jungle Mocs, which fit exactly as well as the previous pair.

Can you tell that I am more than pleased? These shoes are not cheap. But they are an excellent, excellent value.