Well the snow has begun to fly full force and wearing my flip flops isn't really an option. I've only worn shoes to work out in here and there and some yard work that demanded them for the past 7 months. Those events usually lasted an hour at most and then it was right back to open air living for my feet. I've always worn socks 24/7 and this was one of the hardest changes for me to make, but I know now that I can never go back!! My feet feel so sweaty and nasty right now. No smell or anything, but I'm hoping that the changes that I've experienced (MUCH softer and yet stronger) won't go away over the next 6 months. I have got to live were I'll never have to wear closed shoes again.