Like so many others, I wanted comfortable shoes for walking that didn't scream "sneaker." The leather on these shoes is very soft--I also tried the Chase II tie, but the leather was a bit stiffer--which I think will make it comfortable for travel walking. The shoes come laced in a weird way, and until I changed them to the usual pattern I didn't think they would be comfortable, couldn't get them snug in the places they needed to be, so don't give up on this shoe until you try changing the lacing pattern. I really like the look of this shoe with pants and capris, and think they would also work with leggings worn under a dress. These shoes are built on a European last, and are just a bit wider than an American B, which works for me since I measure as C. Like most women, I have narrow heels, and when laced properly these sneakers do not slip on my heel. I have a pair of Eccos that I used for about 15 years for my travel adventures, and they were never as cushioned as these, so I think they'll have a long and useful life.