i have larger calves and the stretch on the back is perfect.  HOWEVER, the top buckle won't buckle around a large calf.  don't know why they didn't make that buckle longer...so i cut off the back buckles (cant even tell) and they're great now!  the leather is nice quality (i bought the black) and they are snug so they don't slouch down much during the day as i walk.  they pretty much run true to size with a little extra room in the toe.  great price for what you get.