I just cut the extra length of the leather laces. I do not think I can get my Nicks Robert boots to look different in 6 months of wear. Nicks Robert will age slowly.
I own a pair of Thursday Vangard, also in 10D, that fit perfectly. The Nicks have a little more of wiggling room on the toes, but maybe a 9 1/2 would be too tight. Anyways, Nicks Robert are comfortable from day one. A little stiff this first day. The break-in just started.