I am thrilled with these boots. I had a pair of black boots that were my go-to and after a few years they are looking kind of beat up. I have been on a hunt for the holy grail of black boots and while these have not yet been test driven significantly, I am feeling pretty good about the idea that I have found them. First of all, the leather is beautiful. Soft and textured, but thick and durable looking at the same time. The leg of the boot is lined with a soft, velvety material. The heel is 3", but there is a 3/4 inch platform that takes some of the pressure off of the ball of my foot. They say that the footbed is specially constructed to reduce foot fatigue. I cannot yet speak to this, but I notice that the heel has a curve at the back, with extra rubber padding extending about 3/4" up the back of the heel. I don't know if this reduces wear or increases shock absorbancy. I do know that my old fave boots wore out on the heel and one of the big problems was that I was scraping the pavement in the back, which was not a good sound or feeling.

I am 5'4" and I did not have any problems with the length of the shaft. As a matter of fact, I would not mind if it came up about an inch or so higher. I measure at a 7.5 medium but generally like to go up a half size so I can add a cushioned insole, especially on heels. The 8 was not available in black so I rolled the dice and got the 7.5. These are very snug on me - through the foot, ankle and even up the calf. If these were made of a man-made material, I would have to send them back. However, the feel of the leather is so supple, I am confident that these will adjust to my feet over the next few wearings. Since I am not very tall, I don't like to tuck boots into pants because it is not flattering. Good thing, because these are very fitted to my calves - one would have to have very slender legs to wear these tucked. Leggings will work for me, though.

The toe of this boot is just pointy enough to look fashionable without cruelty to the toes, the shaft is fitted enough to work under pants of any leg width. I spent more on these boots than I like to spend, but I am ever so happy with them.

**UPDATE** After several weeks of wearing these boots, they have broken in like a dream. I have never been so happy with a pair of boots, ever. The other day I wore them all day long at work, then came home and cleaned my house. Wearing 3" heels. I kept meaning to change to sneakers or something, but they weren't bothering me enough to stop and change. For me that is unreal. I can hardly go to a party wearing heels! So, I bought a backup pair in the exact size and color for who knows when, since these boots are very high quality and not likely to wear out any time soon. Plus I bought a pair of the ankle height Stratham booties in brown. Now that I practically need to be featured on an episode of "Hoarders" I decided it was safe to post my love of these boots for all the world to see! If you are thinking about getting some, do it, because I have all I need!!!!!