I bought these boots because a friend had a very similar pair she bought a few years ago.  I've borrowed them on occasion and loved them.  I returned these boots because the quality was not what I expected from Ariat or for the price I paid.  It was clear the minute I put them on that they were made from low-grade leather.  They were barely comfortable to walk in.  My friend had warned me that Ariat was no longer the quality company it used to be.  Sad to say I found it to be true.  I'll keep looking.