Bristol Block Heel Sandal - Wide Width Available (Women)

I should have read the description more closely before ordering this classic heeled sandal. The looks and the lines of this shoe are very appealing, and had it been rendered in leather instead of plastic, it would have been more comfortable. I knew as soon as I put these shoes on my feet that they were made of synthetic materials. There was no give in the strap across the toes or the instep, and consequently, I found these to be tight and uncomfortable. Then I read the materials info and I knew why: Made of synthetic material. Too bad - they would have been great dress sandals if they were leather. I returned them.

On the "Pro" side, really like the style and it might be as close as this 50+ yr old body will get to a strappy heel. Block heel feels very sturdy and the foot angle is comfortable for a multi-hr day of walking. On the "Con" side, I wish there were shoe makers who designed for a high instep. [sigh] While the wide width is passable, the ankle strap is super short. The only way I can get them on relies on the stretch of that 0.25" elastic give near buckle, slipping the pre buckled ankle strap over my heel. I don't know how many attempts it will take before that breaks. Wonder if I could cut off buckled strap and wear as a fixed slingback? Logic tells me I need to return them. I'm undecided.