I can understand the need to replace the J60889's with a non skid shoe. The J60889's have a tendency to be extremely slippery on wet floors and snowy surfaces. I think where Merrell missed the boat was the arch support is poor. After buying the J60889's exclusively, I bought a pair of these shoes to use during the winter months. The shoes are clunky and you almost have to walk flat footed. Unlike the J60889's that offer a slightly raised sole, lessening the burden off the feet and low back, I am not a fan of these shoes and developed a plantar fascitis issue by wearing them daily and being on my feet for 8-10 hours a day. I would imagine if you were going to wear them for very short periods they might be ok.<br /><br />I am glad the J60889's are again available. For a while, you couldn't find them anywhere. I think Merrell thought the non skid shoe would replace it but found they had too many loyal customers with the J60889 style.