No breaking in needed for these sandals! I ordered one size up as suggested and the fit is perfect. I love everything about these sandals: real leather, and the design, support, footbed and non-slip sole. I have a narrow foot so the adjustable band made it easy to customize my fit. As they say, "You get what you pay for!" They worth the price.
I bought these in the gold color last year and loved them, wearing them almost daily. I expected the same footbed construction when I ordered a new pair in black. The fit is identical, but the heel area is noticeably firmer. They feel more like a Birkenstock and less like the cushioned Mephisto sandals I am used to. These are going back. Will probably get the Dansko Cece instead.