It is like cushioned. The Sony was totally surprising given its very small size. These are by far, my favorite ones I have ever owned - they are so sturdy - not just the soles but the sides and top are thick and supportive as well. They fit well and he says they are nice and comfortable. So I ordered a 9 because that the only size that fits me on Amazon even though my 7 and halfs still fit me. Say you put the PI4s back into the soft-shell carrying pouch after having clipped them. Being an EV, I was trying to avoid energy waste due to wind resistance. This seller has two types of listings for each size. True to size in LENGTH, extremely narrow for the WIDTH of womens average feet size. I am thoroughly disappointed and have wasted my money.