Definitely take a lot of time to break in the leather. I needed to use athletic tape and thick socks to prevent blisters in the ankle. They're still not completely broken in, and I've had them for nearly a year now. I don't wear them as often as I probably should, just because they're still so stiff. Love the shoe though, and if you're willing to put in the extra time and effort to break them in, definitely get them.