Cute rubber boots. Nice sturdy box and insoles included in a plastic sleeve.  You have to trim the insole to fit the boot.  If I put my nose next to the boot, then yes, there is a synthetic smell, but what else do you expect?  The boot is rubber and rubber is made from a petroleum product.  I have not worn them out yet, but I fully expect the smell to disappear as I splash my way thru spring puddles in style.