Right out the box, WOW, so comfy.  Also, so true to size, truly great.  I am always haggling with myself over returning shoes because of some minor anoyance however slight that might bug me.  These shoes are perfect all around for my feet.  Even my 18 yr old son who is all about the "swag" style said that the aesthetics of this shoe rock.  Now that is impressive.  The heel is interesting because it is chunckier than stilletto's (which is what I look for due to walking a lot on the job, but they have a slim look from directly behind (yet with enough of a solid base for brisk walking between office spaces and stability).  Really love these!!