I was looking for a general purpose shoeeverything from wearing around town to motorcycle riding. Looking in several stores, I came upon the Blaze. I liked the looks of the Blaze, but couldn't even try it on, as they didn't have my size in stock. Now, determined to try the shoe, I looked unsuccessfully in town, before coming upon this site through the North Face website. I ordered a pair just to try the shoe; but upon receipt, I quickly decided to keep them. l like the fact that, unlike other walking type shoes, they are not "clunky", but are light and easy to wear, sturdy and comfortable, yet light. They are very good looking, and comfortable to wear with or without socks.