I was at several sporting goods and athletic shoe stores trying to find a light weight close toed hiking shoe, with a good traction sole to wear around Japan this summer in the heat and humidity and likely rain. I could not find anything like the Flarut sandal even for $150. After researching on line, I kept coming back to this shoe because the reviews sounded just like what I was looking for. I am so happy with this purchase, they are exactly everything I wanted, I would have been paying much more had I seen anything like this in stores. Super comfortable, excellent tread on a very flexible sole, well made and almost no weight at all. Tightened the bungie ties once to fit, and have not had to do anything more except slip them on. I have worn them exclusively now since I got them 2 weeks ago, since they are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn. I hike 4 miles every morning, a mix of concrete and then beach sand. These are the first shoes that somehow do not get sand in them, not sure how since they are low cut and pretty open, but no sand. I wear them around the house, working in the yard, out at night even, since they look good as well as comfortable. I will probably need another pair by the time I travel to Japan in July. I also have gotten them wet and they still stay comfortable and dry fast. Only thing I did was add an additional insole under the very nice breathable, light weight insole that came with the shoe.. I have some severe toe damage issues from years of breaking things with my feet in martial arts and have a special insert to support my toes. I wear a size 101/2 normally, so got the 11 to make sure I had room for the added insert. Worked perfectly and gave additional cushion and arch support which is likely the reason I can walk 4 miles and wear them all day long with no problems. However even with my special insoles I can't wear any of my other shoes that long and still be comfortable. Can't recommend them enough if you are looking for a shoe like this, Great product and I am going to buy a few more pairs just to have in stock.