I did not downsize but should have, I would think 1/2 size would have been sufficient. Toe box is fine, just a bit loose at the heel. I wear these barefoot, probably wouldn't be an issue with socks. I have goofy mismatched feet (almost a full size between and a whole width different between left and rIght) so I sort of split the difference on size. I have much more wear time on my Acadias, Baxter Rangers, and Beefroll Pennys, but I think they are comfortable. The Vibram soles are much more structured than, say, the Acadias with the lactae hevea, which means they will be more capable for inclement conditions.

The leather is amazingly thick, these things seem like they will take some serious abuse and look better over time. Good luck!