I have a flat pair of Dansko shoes, so I wasn't sure about getting the higher heel.  This is a solid shoe.  It's like walking in a pair of Dutch clogs.  My other high heels seem flimsy and cheap compared to this shoe.  This seems built more like a boot than a dress shoe. The band across my left foot felt a little tight, but I think it's something that can be stretched a little to make it more comfortable.  My feet didn't bother me like heels do when walking up and down the school hallways. I wear a size 8 normally and purchased the size 39.