I purchased these ballet slippers for my nieces wedding so I would have something to slip into between wearing heels when I needed to run from place to place. They are a perfect solution to carry along in your purse or briefcase. I also work in NYC from time to time and these slippers are a much better solution for me than the sneakers I see so many woman wearing.... I still look pretty and can run to catch a train! I am impressed how well the hold up to pounding the pavement.