I was looking for ankle boots with good enough traction so I can use it while doing business travels in winter without switching into different shoes when I arrive to work. I can only find either thick, clunky, rugged boots and I wanted a more subtle look for leather boots. These fit the bill. I liked it very much the first time I wore it. I am a size 5M and I ordered a 5.5, and I still have room for nice, thick socks. I was able to walk in an inch or two of snow without getting my feet frozen or wet. Traction is good enough, I didn't want boots that have almost smooth soles (as some casual boots actually have), and I am very clumsy on icy walks - these provide me the traction I need. Granted I don't think this will still work well on thick ice, but it's good enough that I don't have to walk like an old lady on the icy sidewalks. Very, very happy with my purchase!