These are the most comfortable shoes I have out of the box. I have wide feet, no arches and cases of plantar fasciitis, and I am always looking for comfortable units. These are amazing! The merchant suggested that I am half the size of the normal 8W, and they are right - the shoes are about 1/4 inch long. But I like a looser fit and I can add a heel insert at any time. They are also made of beautiful solid leather, elastic, non-friction, not good enough to wear a dress or suit to work. My feet are so happy!