I did not read anywhere in this information that the Akron had a rubber sole. After receiving it today, and feeling somewhat cheated, I went to decriptions on other sites where that is explained. I have to rationalize that for the price, I got a good shoe, but I have bought Bostonians for many years and have always had leather soles. This came as quite a disappointing surprize.I did order them from Papa Shoes and was very pleased with them. Ordered on the 6th and just received on the 11th. Cannot beat that.