I don't know why I keep doing it, but shoes never look like the photos when they arrive. These are lightweight, flat-soled shoes with little in the way of support. Best for kicking around the house, town or camp, but I don't know if I'd hike in them. Most of my shoes are hiking or running type shoes, which have a bit of heel in them, though it's not always apparent. These are FLAT-soled, like Chuck Taylors or something. I wear them to work, which is fine. They go well with Levis. I do like the styling, they are unique, but still look outdoorsy. I guess most Patagonia footwear is stylistically apart from the crowd.