Bought these for future hiking and daily knock around based on my research. These sandals are very well made and hefty but not too heavy IPO. Spent 10-15 min to adjust and re-adjust straps so that toes, tops, heels, etc. are not being rubbed when I walk. So far so good - seem to be comfortable from day one and no issues related to size or being overly stiff. My normal shoe is 9 to 9.5 US so purchased size 9 and they are perfect. My first hiking trip is scheduled for Oct of 2023, so will have plenty of time to break them in, but honestly, I have worn them for the past two days, 5+ hours per day, and not even a start of a blister. May want to spend time when you first try them on to adjust/re-adjust the straps so they are a hair loose at the toes.