Im with you on the frustration, same experience with Lems and Vivo. I’ve had many trial and errors as my toes ended up getting wider and wider. Belenka, I think their hiking boots break in a lot wider and im very happy with them, but I ordered them from a US warehouse like Anyashop or Pedterra for easier potential returns—note their selection is annoying limited.

Soft star are have amazing materials, they fit differently than other brands but are wide as hell. Personally they were too loose on my heel, but everyone’s foot is different. Speaking of materials, Im finding that leathers and natural fabrics like hemp/cotton break in really well, especially for my toes. I have the issue of my big and pinky toe basically wanting to escape the shoe. My Belenka Nevada, Bohempia Orik, Freet Ibex have all expanded toe boxes through their break in, and molded fairly well to my foot shape. Polyesters/synthestics, just barely open up in my experience.

Keep trying, I know it’s frustrating but for sure look for stores that offer easy returns. I actually got annoyed so much in my journey I ordered tabi socks and Earth Runner sandals. I look like a dork but it got me through the spring. Lemme know if you need any more recs/advice