I normally wear a size 8 1/2, and I bought a size 9 after reading reviews. They are slightly large on me, but I think an 8 1/2 wouldve been too small. I bought the black nubuck, and they're soft and comfortable. Others have said the leather is hard, and I don't know if those other colors are nubuck material or not. I feel like these shoes will be a staple in my wardrobe due to the comfort. I wore them all day for work with no aggravation or blisters. The only downside is if you wear them without socks, which I guess most people would probably do due to the perforated leather, they do make a sound when you wear them. It was kind of disconcerting to wear them at the office, and walk around and be so loud in my quiet office environment.