These are softer than the other Doc's I've purchased..I'd recommend some saddle soap to ease the break-in, but for a work boot, these are some of the best I've owned. My practice: I always own two pair. One I slip on for small casual trips...to get groceries, a few drinks at a sports bar, time in my workshop...by the time they get really comfy, the pair that I keep for work is ready to go in my locker as a backup for wet days...then I come back to Amazon and the cycle begins anew.