I would have given these shoes a 5 star except for 2 issues, there was a odd spot on the insole that caused a nasty blister in the area just behind the little toe and issue #2 the sole is wearing quickly. I bought these for my girlfriend who works a mail carrier walking on average 12 miles a day and only 10 days in the sole is starting to show significant wear. A small factor of comparison she normally wears Asics and can get almost a year of walking before the sole is shot.

These athletic shoes are out of this world! The way that they are made is very lightweight but extremely supportive. Regardless of how long you wear them and what you are doing you are always comfortable and supported. These shoes are great for dance and Court work as well as working out gym or just to wear casually. I love the color. Normally I would not go for a basic black shoe but this is not basic. The photos on the website shows the gold threads that are throughout the entire fabric on the shoe. It is much more impressive when you look at it in person. Subtle but still very there! My feet are extremely sensitive and these shoes are totally comfortable whether you are wearing a sock or going without a sock. I was looking for performance in the athletic shoes that I buy and I've certainly found it with this brand! This is not the only pair I own. They are that good!

Ryokan makes great women's athletic shoes

Look, I wear a women's size 5.5 wide with high arches and it's nearly impossible to find shoes. The regular 5.5 in this style had a wide enough toe box that my short, fat little feet fit just fine. They were comfortable "no breaking in necessary" right out of the box, good arch support, springy and light. I loathe the color and these are still my new favorite shoes ever.

A few days after I ordered my Ryka sneakers, I received a transit report notice and realized I did not change my old shipping address. I contacted the store and they got back to me right away to let me know they would redirect the sneakers. A few days later I received the sneakers at my new address, no problem. I was amazed at how willing they were to help me and Gabriel shoes needs to be recognized for great customer care. Unfortunately, the sneakers were a little tight on my toe so I am returning them. They do look like great quality though.