The heel section needs breaking in. I rubbed my heels raw on a 7 mile hike, although that may be my own fault for not packing moleskin or socks. I think I recall my last new balances needing the same heel break in. Aside from that, fantastic. Good off road mud grip. The cleat bottoms are a bit slidey on hard slick flooring though. I need to ammend. The heels just aren't breaking in at all. Other new balances are made of better softer material. This is some super strong stiff plastic. I've had them for too long now to send back. Too much faith in New Balance I guess. Spend the extra $50 and go with an MX00 or MX20 New Balance, not these. Savings is not worth it.