My son has wide feet with a high arch and finding boots that were easy enough for him to put on with help, let alone by himself (he's 3) was proving to be a real frustration. I knew Sorels were a high quality boot so gave these a shot based on the wide opening and simple Velcro closure. I am completely pleased with them! My son easily takes them on and off by himself (they can open really wide, out across the bridge of his foot), they are warm, waterproof (up to the ankles), and durable. This has been a mild winter so far in MI, allowing for lengthy outdoor play, but he has always come in with warm and dry feet. Rinsing mud, salt, and slush off is a snap & doesn't soak the boot. Worth the $$ if your kid loves winter outdoor play!