I went hiking in Alaska two days after purchasing this. On the first day I realized I had forgotten my hiking boots, and the only shoes I had were these Sperry topsiders. I was incredibly nervous about using them, but they completely exceeded my expectations.<br /><br />While they don't have tread like boots, Sperrys are designed to A) keep from slipping on slick surfaces, and B) keep water out of the shoe.<br /><br />In the first two days of using them, these shoes have earned a place in my favorites. Would recommend to anyone!