I had a podiatrist butcher both of my big toes 3 years ago and can no longer wear closed toe shoes. I am an avid walker and used to wear Keens all of the time. Then I find these! While they are a little pricey, they are very comfortable out of the box. The only problem I have is that my feet slip forward in them while walking. But my overall workout experience is incredible wearing these, you can feel your muscles working and your posture is greatly improved! On a sidenote, I wore them to the mall, and going up an escalator was hysterical, you have to balance!