Considering that these are formal dress shoes, its stiffness is a good thing, because no wrinkles will appear easily. I felt they were too stiff and too tight the very first time I wore them but, after the first full day I use these shoes, they are as comfortable as my other dress shoes. No blisters, no need of double socks, no harsh contact of any kind. They have a moderate modern look and a high gloss that make them impressive, the different brown shades also make them look "special". Great deal at $50.