I decided to buy these because I had some problems with my foot; my high arches leaned my foot sideways, putting pressure on the side of my foot against the side of my shoe. I was developing a Tailor's bunion, and it was very difficult to wear shoes all day at work. when it became unbearable, that is when I purchased these. they go over your fourth toe to help connect over your 5th toe, and they go down the side of your foot. At first I was skeptical, but then I saw a real difference. The pads are made of a very soft and cushiony material, and I did not feel any pain wearing them, although it did take a period of adjustment to get used to the toe separator cushion. My foot now had a cushion the help protect it from being rubbed raw against the side of my shoe, something that I had an issue with even though I wore socks. By having my fifth toe pushed outward it made the bump not rub against the shoe, thus I am experiencing no pain! I am so thankful I purchased these because they have completely solved my problem! The only downside is that they easily attract a lot of dirt and lint, but they are very easy to hand wash. I highly recommend them for anyone who is developing a Tailor's bunion on the outside of their foot.