****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
Update: I've changed my rating from 4 to 5 after wearing them around the house for a day. They're a bit looser with time. I can now wear them barefoot, but may need to stretch them a bit to use them with lightweight socks. Without socks, they fit like clogs, with lightweight socks they're a trifle tight. This may be a problem with some people who have bunions.They do need to be broken in. I wish the leather wasn't so stiff, but the guy at the shoe repair store says it can't be softened.My previous review:They're beautiful and well made, they probably work for most people.I think these may eventually work for me. The other Alegria boots and shoes I own have been comfortable out of the box. These are not and will require some breaking in. Yes, they are the proper size, the next larger size is enormous on me.The arch support is very good, however there is little cushion in the sole.The toe box is just slightly smaller than expected (smaller than my other Alegria boots), hopefully it will loosen up with wear. The vamp is a little snugger than expected and I'm playing with the velcro strap to learn how to adjust it. I'll get away with tights or possibly very lightweight socks, but can't wear them barefoot today because of the stiffness.I'm 5'2" and the shaft hits just above my ankle bone and rubs, it will hit taller people on or just below the bone. This wouldn't necessarily be a problem except that the leather is stiff.People who don't have achy feet probably won't have the issues that I do. I'd hoped to wear them to a 4 hour event this weekend, but suspect that I'm back to my reliable old Alegria Mary Janes. At the moment, I don't see a way to wear them for more than 2 hours.
