Columbia Mens Fairbanks Low Sneaker 13 Black, Graphite

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I am a very flat and wide 12, and am apparently so "particular" that everyone refuses to shoe shop with me. My second pair of these are wearing down now, and I am ordering my third. This is one of those finds that's made me consider ordering a pallet of them for the day that they inevitably discontinue them. They're a bit more four wheel drive than most skate shoes (I originally recommended these on a skate forum), but they're grippy and insanely comfortable right out of the box. I wear flip flops year round, so my toes enjoy their space, and the toe box in this shoe is like none I've ever found. 10/10.

I bought these to replace a much loved pair of Merrell "Freewheel" urban cycling shoes which were suitable for flat pedals AND for walking. So far, I think these will be a very good replacement, even though that use may not have been the designer's intention. The soles are stiff enough for cycling yet flexible enough for walking, and they grip my pedals well (I have pedals with pins as well as MKS Sylvan touring pedals). I appreciate the ample toe box and the breathable fabric, just like my Merrell shoes had. I've also used them for fitness walking. I was pleased to see they were available in some other color than black!