They come flat packed (no paper liners to keep them open) so they are very flat. I ended up taking some grocery bags, stuffing them into a sock and "stretching" the toe box for a day or so. Otherwise, I felt like my big toenail would cut through the fabric (and my nails cut easily, lol). They have a cord made of rope or hemp inside. It doesn't come out but I was comfortable so I didn't need socks or a pad. I wear 9.5 to 10 and I knew I wouldn't wear socks so I went for 9.5 and they really need some stretch time with pockets. So if you don't want them to be snug, go up half a size.