These boots are far more brighter and better in person! I was so surprised at how colorful they are! Everyone thinks they are Ed Hardy's! I wear a size 10 and have big calves. They fit snug so I have to wear them w/out socks or real thin socks. As for the shaft, I cannot wear these over pants unless its tight leggings so I just pull my pants over the boots. Very comfortable soles and clean up is as easy as hosing them off!