I have purchased these for summer 09. They are the LIGHTEST things on your feet and I think the mesh that keeps rocks out if you go in water is a great idea.
The heel cushion feels very nice, and my feet feel very comfortable in them. I'm not sure how you could get your feet stuck in the slots, like other reviewers, but I have not worn my outdoors yet.
These shoes are among my all-time favorite LL Bean purchases, over at least a decade. They are cute, with an original take on the classic but ugly water shoe, they are well-made, and they happen to be ideal for me in fit, as they are not wide in the midfoot or heel, yet not tapered in the toe. The toebox "accommodates" my gait because it is high at the front and the fabric conforms. I wish there were a hiking shoe version of these.
I was hesitant about buying these sandals after reading some of the reviews which said that the slits in the soles were painful to the point of not being able to wear the sandals. Yet other reviews raved about them, so I decided to try them. And yes, the slits in the soles do take some getting used to. I have worn them daily and don't really notice the slits anymore. The sandals are extremely comfortable! I have taken moderate hikes in them without socks and had no complaints. I look forward to warmer weather and putting them to a real test hiking in Zion National Park, the main reason I bought them.
