At first I was surprised the sole felt hard.  But now that I have been wearing these often for about a month - I LOVE them!  They are so comfortable.  I also get lots of compliments on them, including from men.  How often do men notice shoes????  Well, they notice these.  I got the light blue and they look great with jeans.  I plan to get another color....or two now that I know how much I love them.