The shoes are sound, by the looks of it. They're just relatively inexpensive. I think they were $80. They're certainly less flexible than street shoes, but there's more flex in the sole than, say, DBF's Sidi Genius(es? Genii?). It seems to be speed-related. I did 36 miles with an average of 13-14mph with no problem. The higher-speed (avg 15-17mph) rides leave my feet sore. I'll certainly see if I need my cleats adjusted, though.