I got my size (I wear 39) and they are generally wide. Maybe the 38 would have fit me better, but I will definitely wear them for many hours. I preferred them to be spacious because I will also wear them with thicker socks and sometimes add an insole. On the first day, I got hit high near the calf because I was only wearing tights. Their sole is good but heavy like a boot. They are something between a flat shoe and a traditional boot. They go well with everything, even with good trousers!