When you put the shoes on for the first time they are quite comfortable but as they break in you feel the uneven construction of the insole. If you pull out the lining, you'll find that most of the shoe's "comfort" comes from the thick toe box, and the construction under the box is suspect. I had an Echelon 6 and wore it with no problems. I realize the E7 has taken a step back in quality and materials. Compared to the E6, the E7 feels plasticky and cheap.