Why 5 stars? Because I have a messed up knee and wearing them for five consecutive days on vacation, I didn't complain at all... as soon as I came back and put on another pair of ordinary shoes, I immediately noticed the difference and ordered two pairs of Birkenstock. Look past the appearance... they won't seem bulky once you get used to them and you can literally wear them with anything. Is it strange and uncomfortable on the foot at first? Yes, it is... but it's not the shoe's fault... it's our old shoes that we wear and have gotten used to, causing great harm to our feet without realizing it. Give them time, with continuous wear, to train your lazy and spoiled foot, and then they will become essential to you.