The soft don't actually feel soft, but they are softer than original. I have flat feet and have a pair of the soft soles and they work well.

I would buy from zappos because of the great return policy (365 days). I bought the soft and regular from zappos, then returned the regular. The Birkenstock website has more selection and has some sales, you just have keep on eye on the return policy (30 days).

Yup I’ve found the soft sole breaks in quick. Also, for quicker break in go with the suede straps.

I like the soft soles much better. Quicker break in period And they stay softer. I have several pairs and I break them in relatively quickly by wearing as house shoes first. IMO trying them on for a few min in a store will not be enough to know if they are good for your feet. It takes weeks for them to feel good on my feet.

I can’t seem to find a good response on soft sole vs. regular. I have a flat foot and the regular is hard on my non existent arch (I pronate).

How much better is the soft?

I don’t live near a Birkenstock or Comfort 1 store to try them out.