These shoes are very comfortable; I can't remember when I've had a pair fit so well from the start. I find that the extra eyelet (not laced initially, right out of the box) makes a big difference; there's a way to do it (creating a loop to put the lace through) that makes the shoe feel snugger in the heel, so my foot doesn't slip in itjust perfect. And I'm thrilled to be able to get a good "stability" shoe without having to go with colors like neon orange and chartreuse. I only lament that they aren't made in gray or brown. Surely there is an over-30 demographic for this shoe?