Dee, I'm not sure I'll be able to wear the shoes without an insole. If I need one, I'll use a thin Superfeet insole. It does fit into the shoe. (I tested before removing the tags.) For now, though, they seem to be working well. Although called flats, they actually have a small (very small) heel, which you can see in the side view photo in my Finds. A complete flat is a complete NO for me, as well. I would never try a flat sandal, for instance. And I typically wear insoles in sneakers and other flats. The exceptions are my white Cole Haan oxfords, which seem fantastic without an insole. Again, there is a very slight lift on the shoe - it is not totally flat. I worried last year that this shoes might aggravate my plantar fasciitis, but it is honestly the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn. I bought a second pair to have one in reserve. I also bought a slight variation in grey -- but for that one, I do use a Superfeet insole!! And a platform version in navy, which took some breaking in, but is now extremely comfortable sans extra insole.
Angie, Carla -- yes, I will definitely aim to layer coats over jacket while away. It is just a question of which jacket weight to bring. And Carla, thanks for the links. I have been watching those videos and getting a sense of the weather from them. At least from the recent ones.
Thanks, Sharan and JAileen! I am enjoying the red shoes so far.