My experience with these shoes is similar to reviews from others I have read. The first pair was comically squeaky...think clown shoe. Since some indicated that they did not have a problem with squeaking, I exchanged them instead of returning them. The second pair was much better, although they are still a bit prone to squeaking. I noticed a few patterns. First, the squeaking is only present with certain carpeted floors. It's almost non-existent outdoors or with hard floors. Second, the squishy feeling improves with time (I've worn them 3 times now). Third, based on experience with another pair of Merrells, I tried a different sock...the squeaking seems to be less with Darn Tough hiking socks, which seem to have a higher coefficient of friction and don't slide in the shoe as much. This observation may actually be due to &#34;breaking the shoe in&#34; and not due to the socks but I can't be sure. Anyway, the shoe is comfortable and looks good so, if you like them but can't bear the squeaking, try a second pair.