These might look like tough, heavy leather hiking boots which you might have used to climb Everest in the 1950s, but don't be put off. They're light and quite flexible. Other reviews on the Internet have commented that they needed no breaking in, and I found the same thing, despite having flat feet and quite an awkward walking gait. I picked them up quite cheaply at Go Outdoors wanting something a bit lighter than my heavy-duty winter boots for use in hot climates and to minimise weight getting up mountains. I have to say I'm delighted with them. They're the most comfortable walking boots I've ever owned, and this alone makes them worth having. So many uncomfortable boots over the years, so many blisters, plasters and ruined holidays... hopefully all a thing of the past now. I took these boots for a week walking up mountains in the Canaries, and they have looked after my feet well. Ankle support is quite good which is important to me. Where I did encounter water - which so far has only been puddles, mud and undergrowth, haven't tried anything serious yet - they've stayed totally dry. Downsides - well they are relatively soft and might not be warm enough in extreme cold conditions. But if you walk above freezing I don't think you'll have any problems. A real bargain.