This is the second pair of Barefoot shoes by Merrell that I have purchased...the first was a pair of Trail Glove Barefoot shoes. I purchased this type of shoe after starting with some barefoot toe shoes by another manufacturer. I started wearing this type of shoe due to some arch and ankle problems. I had been to the doctor(s) several times to try to figure out where all the pain was coming from...they told me that my left foot was literally flat on the ground and that my right foot had fallen but not nearly to that extent. I had always purchased shoes with substantial arch supports and fairly rigid soles to try and help support my flat feet but the pain in my left foot/ankle just continued to get worse. I decided to see if I could find anything on the internet by people who had the same problem. While searching I found several different sources that stated they had the same problem and the barefoot style shoe had helped them re-gain strength and ultimately relieved some of the pain. I was hesitant but proceeded. Within two days much of the pain was gone and within a couple of weeks I could tell the difference in the strength in my feet. I didn't particularly like having the material between my toes because they rubbed so I started looking for something in a normal shoe style with the barefoot soles. I found the Merrells, bought my first pair and within a week or two bought this second pair. I can now walk several miles without the excruciating pain and have pretty well eliminated most other types of shoes from my closet. I don't know that they will work for everyone as well as they did me but I am elated with them. I would recommend starting slowly and letting your feet and legs get used to them. You will notice that you will be using different muscles to walk with and my calves were a little sore from the original " getting used to period"...but that only lasted for a couple of days and now I wear them all the time.

This particular shoe (Slant slip on) is one of the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned and goes well with jeans or casual slacks. I am truly very happy that I found this type of shoe and the Merrell's in particular....very good product and great concept.