These boots took a good 10 or so wearings before they fully broke in. The beginning was hard because they gave me blisters on my heels. I used to protect my heels with taped-on tissue and bandaids when i wore them. I stuck it out because of their reputation as great boots and I'm glad I did. They are now very malleable like the suede that they are. You still need to wear medium to thick socks!! But that's not an inconvenience since they are for the cold weather. I have worn them in rain and cold (no snow this year) and they are very warm and fully protect your feet. They aren't warm like big fuzzy slippers. They are the kind of warm where you lace them up tight and it keeps out all the cold. They don't make my feet feel overheated or sweaty either.

They are very stylish and I get compliments on them often. I got the dark red ones, which really spice up an outfit and match everything. Also as they break in they start to crease, which turns the red into a lighter color giving them that cool worn-in look.

I ordered them in my usual size 9 and they fit perfectly. Again, stiff at first, so wear them on short walking trips before you take them out for a whole day of walking.  They are very sturdy, no sign of strain, and I hope to have them for years.