For reasons I'll never understand, most athletic shoe manufacturers insist that feet can vary in length but NOT width. My legs are here to testify that this is not true. And I'm not alone. New Balance has known this for decades and offers shoes in variable widths. So for me these shoes are perfect for what is most important: they are snug and comfortable and offer great support without chafing or pinching my feet. No bubbles, no break-in time. And there is no tendency to burst early because the shoes are too tight for my feet. Thank you NewBalance!