I ordered these first in my regular size (8) and they were so snug in the toe box that I decided to order the 8.5 and see how they fit in comparison. The 8.5 definitely fit better, but the insole in the heel area was so wildly uncomfortable I had to take them off right away. It was like walking on a metal pole the way it dug into my heel. This was really disappointing because these shoes looked good with everything - skinny jeans, black jeggings, tights with a dress. Sadly both sizes are going back.