I had been looking for a black, tall-shaft, low-heeled boot with buckle detailing, made with "real" leather.  Some styles that I looked at were motorcycle-type boots that were too masculine-looking for me, and the riding boots look a bit plain.  These boots are the perfect mix of the two styles.  The leather is great quality, and the boots are comfortable.  With the pull-on style, I seem to wear 1/2 size smaller than my regular size; I normally wear an 8, medium width, but got these in 7.5 for a perfect fit when wearing a medium-thick sock.  I can see myself wearing these for years to come.  2/18/2011 -- Update:  I am still loving the boots, and they are holding up very well.  They are comfortable, and I've gotten several compliments.  I just purchased the steel color.  It's actually dark brown with pearlized gray mixed in....very pretty.  Amazon's price is just too good to pass up.