Thaine Loafer (Women)

I love a good and unique loafer, so when I saw these with the oversized buckle, I didn't hesitate! This is my first pair of A.S. 98 shoes so I read lots of reviews to determine quality and sizing. Based on what I read, I order a 41EU which is my standard size. Putting them on for the first time, I was so disappointed. While they weren't too small, my big toe was definitely pushing up against the harder leather of the toe box, and it was a little uncomfortable. I walked around for a few minutes, really bummed that they weren't going to work for me. I took them off and left them for a few hours. Before boxing them back up I decided to give them one more try, and I'm so glad I did! Upon putting them on the second time, they snugly slipped onto my feet like comforting leather gloves. The toe touch problem was completely gone and they fit my feet like they were made just for me. The different leathers that these shoes are made from are truly luxurious and after only two wearings they are perfect, and the most comfortable loafers I have ever worn. I may have to purchase a backup pair because I will be wearing these forever.

I'll start by saying this is one of the most interesting and beautiful shoes I've ever seen. Unfortunately they have an unsolvable problem. The shoes are heavy (Doc Marten heavy, which isn't the primary problem) and have the stiffest sole I've ever seen--think piece of wood or metal--zero flex or bend. Between the stiffness and the weight your heel lifts out of the shoe as soon as you take a step unless you clomp like Frankenstein's monster or waddle on your heels like a duck. I've spent a day trying to persuade myself that I can live with this but I just can't bring myself to look this silly so back they must go.