I am a complete FitFlop junkie. I usually buy an 8 in the thong but bought a 9 in these because of the warnings. The ankle is tight, but the boot itself is too big. It just doesn't fit or feel like a FitFlop. Maybe a smaller size would have been better -- but I don't think I would be able to get my foot through the opening. The Mukluks and Tall Toning Boot offer a much better fit for me.