Based on recommendations from this forum, I ordered two pairs of clogs in European size 38 (US size 7.5 - 8) that just arrived. One pair, is an open-back that fit perfectly. The closed-back pair appear to be too big. <BR><BR>However, the instructions that came with the closed-back clogs say "Dansko clogs should naturally cradle your foot, and should not pinch, bind or cramp in anyway. The generous fit afforded by Dansko's distinctly high toe-box should allow for proper circulation, reducing fatigue and enabling your toes to spread naturally as you walk. In addition, your heel should lift up and down with every step, even in the closed heel models. As with all hand-lasted footwear, slight variations in fit may be expected. If you are between sizes, we recommend sizing upwards for closed-back models, especially in our box leathers, and downwards for sandals or open-back models. <BR><BR>Ideally in closed-back models a pencil's space room between your heel and the plastic backing is ideal. Because the rocker bottom adds a bounce to your step, a fit that is too tight prevents the up-and-down rocking motion that is so unique in clogs, and is therefore not advised."<BR><BR>So, the closed-back clogs that I just purchased are about a pencil's space too big. They seem enormous to me. I had not intended to wear these clogs with socks, but I suppose I will have to. But, I was wondering a couple of things: if I wear the clogs with stockings, and put a pad in the shoe, will I get a more snug fit? Also, what is the chance of the leather stretching as I break these clogs in? If it stretches. then won't the clog become more loose and even bigger?<BR><BR>I bought these clogs online, and need to know whether or not to return them. It seems that a smaller size will be too tight. Investing a $100 in a pair of clogs that might end up in the back of my closet seems to be such a waste of money. <BR><BR>One other question, how comfortable are these clogs on cobble stones? I had intended to wear them in Budapest.<BR><BR>Lastly, I normally wear a US size 8 shoe and a European size 38 shoe, and am very comfortable in White Mountain clogs and Born flats. All of your experiences and opinions are appreciated.<BR><BR>Leslie<BR>

Oh my god. This post can not possibly be for real! If the shoes feel comfortable keep them. If they don't, return them. Yes, leather stretches! Yes, an inner sole makes shoes tighter! Duuuh!<BR><BR>If this post is for real, I say return them both. Those shoes are very unattatractive, very clunky and American looking, and you could not wear them with a skirt. Just the visual of that makes me cringe.

Loveshoes, I don't know whether or not the original post is for real, but I do know that clogs are not "American-looking." They originated in Europe, were imported for years from Scandinavia before American companies started making and are currently being worn all over the place in Europe. And even if they are American-looking, why would that be so terrible?

The thread is serious, it's not a troll. Thanks for the responses so far, I think. The clogs are made in Denmark. If they weren't made in Europe, I would not have given a European size, and would have been able to purchase a 1/2 size instead of a whole size. The clogs are actually very attractive, both with slacks and skirts.<BR><BR>Also, these clogs are worn by many in the medical profession.<BR><BR>I'd really appreciate opinions from people that wear these clogs. Thanks.

Leslie,<BR><BR>On my first trip to Europe I brought along one pair of Mephisto shoes and one pair of Mephisto sandals. The shoes were horrible, the sandals okay, my feet still hurt at the end of a long day.<BR><BR>Last year, I brought the Mephisto sandals again and a pair of open back Dansko clogs. The Mephisto sandals stayed in the suitcase this trip and I wore the Dansko's 100% of the time.<BR><BR>For me, they are wonder shoes. Other than my legs getting used to using new muscles and being a little sore the first few days, my feet NEVER hurt. Granted, they would not be the shoes I would pick for high fashion, but I don't think they were that bad, even with skirts. I feel the trade-off for comfort was definitely worth it and I like them better than alot of the other so-called walking shoes out there.<BR><BR>I'm planning on picking up another pair for this year's trip (hopefully in Paris where they might be a little cheaper.) They have a new style, open toe, open back and an adjustable strap across the top. <BR><BR>Another suggestion, do what's right for you, don't worry about anyone else.<BR><BR>If you have any specific questions, send me an e-mail. Have a great trip!<BR><BR>Dianne<BR><BR>P.S. No problem walking on cobblestone streets.

I teach, I wear them for work, the only shoes I can wear all day and not hurt in. I wore them on my last trip to Europe, and stumbled a lot on cobblestones, though I'm not known for my grace. However, when I wore a different pair of shoes, I didn't have the stumbling problem. I think its because the Dansko soles have no flexibility. I have both kinds both in the same size they are meant to be lose in back.

Dianne and Dansko Wearer, <BR><BR>Thanks so much for your comments. I wore the open-back clogs all day today. I didn't have any problems at all. I did walk through Boston's cobble-stoned Quincy Market today, and didn't have any problems, but that was only for 20 minutes and not for a day of sightseeing. I think I'm more prone to leave the open-back ones at home. I did buy a pair of inner-soles today for the closed-back ones and I'll see how snug they are, otherwise, I'll try them with socks. I guess I'll be able to tell in a week or so if I think that I should take them with me to Budapest. They don't seem heavy at all, and I agree that they do look nice with slacks and skirts. Otherwise, I'll just wear my Born flats and my Sam & Libby flats while I'm away. I wore my Sam & Libby flats throughout Prague in November and was walking 6 miles a day and didn't have any problems at all.<BR><BR>Thanks again.<BR><BR>Leslie

I personnally cannot wear Danskos, even tho I love the way they look. They are too stiff and hard for me. I prefer Naots all year.