I had a difficult time at first getting my foot into the shoe. The opening was tight around the top of my foot above the arch. But once I got them on, I was surprised at how well the foot area fit. But the real surprise was the difference they made in my aching knees. I had been going up and down steps in another similarly styled shoe and my knees were very achy. The next day I wore these shoes, went up and down the steps even more times, and the achiness was significantly less the following day. There is no explanation except the cushiness and secure fit of the shoe. My feet don't slide around at all, there is a lot of arch support, and a nice soft footbed. I have a slightly wide upper foot, but still wear a B width, and a narrow heel. I could wear these shoes the whole day right out of box. I never knew that my shoes could make such a difference in my arthritis.I think it's the arch support that really makes the difference.