Rockport used to make all of thier shoes with a steel shank until a couple years ago. They began making all shoes with a "fiberlon" shank which is made of hardened nylon and plastic. I wear these at work at the checkpoint all day and they are very comfortable. Can be a little pricey, but worth it. Another brand is Deer Stags which are found at JC Penney for about $50. I know a few of the other TSA guys and some pilots that like these ones alot.