From the moment I put these on I knew they were a 5-star purchase. There was no breaking in. Comfort fit with lots of room in the toe box. Although if you have narrow feet I would not recommend. I have wide feet and thickish socks make them fit perfect and of course the laces mean you can totally control the tightness. Also you need to take time with the lacing. There is no quick zip with these but the laces make it and the complements abound when I wear them!