Two months ago I purchased a pair of Merrell Glade sandals from a department store. I normally wear a 7 1/2, but these only came in whole sizes. The straps on the size 8 were a perfect fit, with the sole only being a little bit longer than necessary. Right out of the box, they were the most comfortable sandal I've ever worn. I usually end up "breaking in my feet" to a new pair of sandals, not breaking in the new shoes.

I have since purchased two pairs of the Merrell Heather sandals. In fact, I've lived in one pair or another of the Merrell's since the original purchase. They are extremely comfortable on the foot, both tops and bottoms--no blisters or painful rubbing across the top of the toes. And I have less knee, back and hip pain walking in these sandals.

While these are expensive, I have a closet full of shoes that I cannot wear because of pain. So in the long run, it's cheaper to buy something I know I can wear. I'm totally sold on Merrell's and will probably purchase them to the exclusiion of other brands.