I received the package and upon opening my house was filled with a noxious smell of new tire and a horrid chemical compound. My wife ordered me to put them outside or in the garage. I looked up information on the internet about the issue. Apparently, these faux leathers produced in China (especially) have a terrible odor. Numerous web pages found on Google give direction on how to reduce the smell--none offered the possibility of complete removal. So far, I have used dishwashing soap, window cleaning spray, white vinegar mixed with water and wrapped them in newspaper with tissue wrapped charcoal placed inside the shoe. The odor persists. The last resort is to put them in a bag with charcoal (or Odoreaters) for two weeks. That's my next and last attempt. If I have no success, I will return them prior to deadline.