I am the biggest advertisement for Birkenstocks. I used to suffer terribly with my feet when I worked at a hospital, I almost wanted to cry. I bought a cheaper Birkenstock sandal made with Birkoflor instead of leather in case they did not help. Well they were the best thing I ever bought. Soon I bought a pair of duty shoes and never had pain again. I know they are not for everybody but they really helped me. The leather ones are expensive but they last forever.