i love this shoe.  every time I wear them I congratulate myself on them.  for awhile Merrill was making a more pointed toe, and now they are back with a wide toe box.  this shoe is soft and flexible, yet gives total support for my foot.  no break-in period.  I didn't want a light hiker but couldn't find anything else, and i'm so glad I had to  "settle" for these!  will probably buy another pair just so I don't have to find a substitute down the road. I wear a 7.5 shoe always.  I bought an 8 and they are nice and roomy in the toe and secure in the heel.