Dansko Elise

I really wanted these shoes to work since I think they are so cute for a walking shoe, and the elastic banding around the foot entry makes it less likely to chafe...but in the end, I couldn't make them work. I tried every orthotic I had, combos of orthotics, etc, but it just never felt right. The large toe box is great, but it actually felt too large, like I could slide around. I never could get the proper arch support in the right place, but that may have been a sizing issue -- I couldn't tell if I needed to go up or down a size. If you have plantar fasciitis (and mine is severe), this may not be the shoe for you.

I'd also recommend: Naot, Birkenstock, Toas

First off, for those with the heel slippage problem, I had to size down from a 41 to a 40 or these to fit right. I was concerned because my right foot big toe seemed a tad close to the end, but being suede they stretched out some and now fit perfectly. I have low arches, not flat feet, and the arch support in these is perfect for me. My heel is narrow, and I widen out in the ball of my foot, and these fit perfectly in both areas. Someone commented that she wasn't sure how to lace them due to the neoprene around the ankle. They lace like any other shoe. If in doubt, look at the picture. I would not consider these distance walking shoes. I ran 5 miles a day for 40 years and now walk instead, due to knee problems, from 3 to 5 miles, and only wear good quality running shoes to walk that much distance. I do still break into a run now and again when my knees will take it, so it's just better in my opinion to buy something more serious for distance. I've never found a walking shoe enough to support my feet for long power walks. I love the quality of these shoes, and the blue and aqua are so pretty for spring. I've never liked Dansko clogs. My feet are too narrow for them, and the sole seems to hard for my knees. But, since these have rubber soles and lace, they work fine. I'm very happy with mine.

I'd also recommend: Brooks and Mizuno

These shoes are very pretty, and seem well-made. They have decent support for most people, although there is no room for an orthotic insert (such as Dr. Scholl's) and no ankle support. They were very tight around the top of my foot at first, but I am breaking them in and they are getting better. There is a lot of toe room, though, so I guess if you have long toes or something, this would be a good shoe for you. I wouldn't classify this as a good shoe for heavy walking, but for light to moderate amounts they are comfortable.

I love my the style. I wasn't sure at first, but after I put it on and wore it, they were great. My foot runs a little wide, so the wider toe box was great! I haven't noticed the heel slippage that others have commented on. I too, have plantar fasciatis, and the arch support was good. I will probably order another pair.