These are excellent boots made in Wisconsin by fellow Americans at a company that is proud of it's union work force. They are exceptionally well made of very high quality oiled leather. There is almost no "break in" time as they are quickly very comfortable. The wedge sole is a soft quiet stride without being too soft or spongey. They do run a half size big, although some reviews are saying a whole size big. I have ordered three different models of Thorogood boots, (this pair for my son), and in each case a half size reduction in size has given us the perfect fit. Amazon makes exchanging very easy if the size is wrong but I haven't had that problem. The Thorogood wedge boots are easily the most comfortable boots, an all time favorite.