text: Purchased as I love all things Patagonia and hiking. I typically wear between a 8 and 8.5 depending on brand and use of shoe. I took a risk on a size 8.5 pair of Patagonia vela hiking shoes for an amazing deal. Unfortunately these shoes were just too big for my feet. However, a hiking buddy (typically size 8.5 to 9 in shoes) was more than happy to unburden me of them. She absolutely loves these shoes. They are super comfortable with good arch support. However, even she thinks that they run a bit on the big side. Would recommend going on the lower end of shoe size or you might end up with some clownish hiking shoes.