This shoe was recommended to me by my podiatrist after I had torn the muscles in the arch of my foot. The shoe is constructed to only bend in the front 3 or 4 inches where your toes and ball of your foot are. According to my podiatrist most shoes will bend in the arch which can lead to pour foot support & lead to injuries. This is the second pair of the Gel-Kayano 13 that I have bought & I have had no further pain or discomfort in the arch of either foot. I will continue to purchase this shoe until they stop selling them & I have considered buying more now while they still are available.