these shoes are not intended to provide arch support.  that being said, I love them because I'm gong minimalistic and didn't have a sandal .  These are sturdy and so light weight I don't know there are there.  I once stepped on a large thorn that went all the way through them, but not enough to break skin...  I feel rocks through them, but that is what I wanted.  the rocks don't hurt me.  one thing I appreciate about these sandals as well as other minimalistic items is that it helps you to know when you are angry...  I can't go stomping around in them...  I have to honor my body and that is the point.  as to other pieces...  stones/gravel rarely get picked up...  if you find them sliding off bring the straps closer to the front side of your ankle...  I'd buy another pair in a heartbeat, but don't think I'll need to because it looks like these will last quite a while!