Update! I wore them once, right out of the box, and was surprised at how comfortable they were! They were stiff, but nothing nasty! treated them with some Obenauf's, and wore them again a couple of days later, with even better results! I don't think they will take long to break in despite how thick they are.Just put a layer of tire crumb/contact cement on them, and am waiting for it to dry! Looks like I will have to get myself a pair of Lace Boots as well! Just got off the phone with Paul, and will get the ball rolling on that!