We have only bought stride rite to this point for my kids. They have wide thick instep feet. (Like as in can't wear almost all flip flops because can't get foot under thong part) My oldest's feet have gone from stride rite xw (an F width in Clark's!) To a more mellow wide as he has gotten past toddler. He is now heading into size 9 wide. Due to thick instep, I'm not too concerned about Velcro closures not being fully covered because most of his shoes have never closed right on due to his thick instep.1) these shoes look really classy (the grey ones)2) they seem well made and comfortable3) I got a 9wide Clark's sneaker too and he walked in one on one foot and the saucony on the other and several times insisted on keeping the saucony ones4)the length is good and plenty of room to grow but his foot isn't lifting out of the back of the shoe when he walks so it's a good design5)I'm a stickler for avoiding toxins as much as possible especially for kids and knowing feet are porous and stuff goes right to your bloodstream thru your feet. It says there is an antimicrobial odor lining in shoes. This can be chemical based (like triclosan etc) or non toxic. I confirmed with the company that they use Aegis shield, which if u look it up is a non toxic antimicrobial barrier which is bonded to the fabric, does not leach, and is more of a physical bacteria deterrent than a poisoning of bacteria one. So kudos on using something no toxic.6) the width seems appropriate and I was happy the Velcro can adjust for width of feet to make sure not too tight.7) price is better than stride rite and they had sizes available in wide width.I will buy saucony again.