I wouldn't wet any of the contemporary hiking boots in this fashion. Size them in the afternoon, wear the socks you will wear on the trail, fit them fairly snug in the heel and with about 3/8" to 1/2" room between the toes and the front of the boot. My experience with Vasque boots has been extremely good (Sundowner and Clarion models) - very minimum suffering in breaking them in.<br><br>Begin the break in process by wearig them around the house, to work etc. before thaking them out on the trail. Use them on short walks first before pushing them hard.<br><br>If by any chance they should loosen up after some use, simply insole a thicker insole (Spenco is my favorite). I usually replace the insole that comes with the boot with Spencos anyway.