As soon as I opened the box of these boots I was overwhelmed by the stench of rubber. In reading reviews for other rain boots I realized that this was a common comment. It didn't make sense to me that people would be bothered by the smell of rubber... However, it is a pretty intense stench.  I bought these boots because they would actually fit around my calves.  I love the look and other than the smell the only complaint I have is that the lining of the foot shifts around and can get uncomfortable.