I bought these shoes as work shoes. Nothing expensive because it's overused other than the quality of New Balance shoes. The shoes are as comfortable as expected for the price. However, the sock is very stiff and will not break. My previous NB pairs have adapted to the different shapes of the human foot and eventually took its shape. There is some sort of shiny substance at the top that has reinforced the top of the shoe which is sure to be for protection, toe bruises etc, but it's too hard and