I ended up getting a pair of the Bright Shoemaker engineer boots sent over in a 45, and have another sizing question.
The 44, as noted earlier, was very tight in the toebox, causing some pretty serious discomfort, especially with medium thickness socks. Now, with the 45's there is a slight bit of heel slip, which I understand is normal with this style of boot, and the right foot (the 11.5B Brannock) is maybe a half size "too big", but I think punching a hole in the instep strap that is ~5mm from the third one, would solve any "slop" in that boot. Is this a better fit for me, than being uncomfortable, hoping that the 44's will eventually stretch enough to not cause that issue? I know sizing is down to the individual, but, these two feel like they're super close, but also very far apart... Maybe this boot/last just isn't for my foot and I should return both? Any suggestions from here are appreciated.
The 44, as noted earlier, was very tight in the toebox, causing some pretty serious discomfort, especially with medium thickness socks. Now, with the 45's there is a slight bit of heel slip, which I understand is normal with this style of boot, and the right foot (the 11.5B Brannock) is maybe a half size "too big", but I think punching a hole in the instep strap that is ~5mm from the third one, would solve any "slop" in that boot. Is this a better fit for me, than being uncomfortable, hoping that the 44's will eventually stretch enough to not cause that issue? I know sizing is down to the individual, but, these two feel like they're super close, but also very far apart... Maybe this boot/last just isn't for my foot and I should return both? Any suggestions from here are appreciated.



