After years of cushioned shoes, I did not expect the need for a period of wearing in the shoes. I almost returned them. But perseverance paid off and I find these shoes to be the most comfortable shoes with or without socks after only 4 days of wear. Thorns are a big problem along the paths of my backyard, and these shoes had no trouble with them whatsoever. The thick leather bottom allowed no thorns to poke the soles of my feet. I have already ordered another pair in a different color, I like them so well.