These shoes feel tight at first. After a few hours they will stretch. They also cannot be worn with socks, but you can wear a pair of invisible socks to further stretch them. after that they are fine. As far as I know they are more popular in Europe - in the US at first it's like wearing street slippers. a good alternative to sandals, they are very light and breathable so perfect when it's hot but you don't want to show your toes or when the sandals are too casual.