I have wide feet and was nervous to buy shoes online without trying them on. I ordered a size higher, and in wide hoping I could put some dr. scholls in them to adjust the extra room if it existed. I got the shoes, put them on, and at first, they felt big and tight. But then I slipped them on a couple of more times, walked around my house and I felt the leather adjusting to my feet. A roommate who has flat feet just happened (shes a geologist so I trust her recommendation) to have the same shoes. She said from day one she never had a problem and they are her favorite shoes. I kept the shoes. They have molded to my feet greatly and even though they could probably be another 1/8 or 1/2 of an inch wider, I havent had problems with the shoe yet! Ive done a few 5 mile walks so far and they feel so great! They keep my feet warm, but I know I will be able to wear them in the summer as well. I did not put any inserts in (they come with their own great inserts) and my doubts about them being too big lengthwise have disappeared. You want a little big of room, especially for downhill. I also wear hiking socks, or two pairs at a time (which I personally prefer for more comfort) and they fit greatly. I am really enjoying my timberlands and I will buy from them the next time around when these finally wear down! Wears this shoe: Outside, hiking, walking