I have diabetes and my doctor took me because I like to go barefoot. I hate slippers in the house and in the garden. And I don't want to wear a lot of shoes during the pandemic. These socks have a durable sole that protects my feet from small debris like pebbles and acorns, but they're lightweight and I feel like I'm walking barefoot. I like them so much I bought a second pair so I can switch them up. Seems to hold up well to washing, but I let them air dry