I have been on the hunt for black mary-jane style shoes with low heels for quite some time.  These were on sale, so I thought I would try them.  They are fairly cushy, and the insole is removable if you have a preference for a different kind.  The strap actually fastens with velcro (which I don't mind, since I'm usually in a hurry).  The top part comes fairly high on the foot...no chance of toe cleavage.  The leather is decent...not that super-soft kid leather, but it seems like it will hold up to the elements a little better.  Stable to walk in, not too slippery, although I haven't worn them when it's really wet outside. I'm usually a 9.5/10 wide, but they were out of the 41's, so I got the 42. A little long, but not unwearable, especially with the strap.  The width is perfect for me (it's comparable in width to the C/D in non-Artisan Clarks).  They are a little ugly, but they're functional and fairly comfortable.  Subtracting a star because I'm not sure how the soles will hold up long term.  These didn't really require much break-in - the top was a little snug right out of the box, but stretched within an hour.