It seems SITM are making their socks a bit more snug lately. I really love these but it took wearing them uncomfortably for many months to get them to stretch out. I have wide calf legs and SITM are the only knee high socks that actually cater to wide calf women, which is why I try to buy as many pairs as I can afford! I still will give them 5 stars because they are the best quality socks I've found and at a reasonable price.