Merrell Proterra Vim Sport Hiking Shoes (For Women)

I'm writing this review on a new shoe, so can't comment on wearability. The shoes are well constructed, look good, and fairly lightweight. There is arch support because the heel cups down and also because of the rubbery straps at the arch area. I usually buy a size 9 in Merrells and this one also fits in a size 9, although it is longer than Merrell Evera styles. (With most althletic shoes, I wear a size 9.5) I measure a C width; this shoe is plenty wide enough for me and the toe box is high enough not to pressure big toe. I love the grippy sole. All good things said about this shoe, yet I have a hesitation because it feels like a negative heel shoe. I don't know if it is or is supposed to be, but my heel does feel lower. I'm concerned about this because I already have enough foot, knee, and back pain and don't want to wear shoes that stretch my muscles and tendons in a way no other shoe will. Hmmm, looking at the description: shoe has "a 4 mm drop." I didn't know what that means, but I guess it means the heel is lower than the forefoot?

For me, I'm still thinking about them. For you? heck, it's impossible to recommend shoes because our feet are all so different. These are nice though and there's nothing funny rubbing anywhere.