I have severe osteoarthritis in my feet, so I need shoes that are both comfortable and firm, to minimize my feet flexing. This is one of the first casual shoes I have found that actually provide it.They combine the comfort of a sneaker, the ruggedness of a hiking boot, and the support of orthotic footwear, while also being quite attractive. The rocker sole is stiff and rugged, and allows me to walk/hike with minimal bending of my feet. The only negative I have found is that the tread is quite hard, so it is little "cloppy" on hard floors.