These boots are absolutely gorgeous! Love the smell of leather when first opening the box. I immediately tried them on and was disappointed that I couldn't get them on with or with out socks. The problem is at the ankle area and my heel would not go in. I read some other reviews and tried the plastic bag. It worked wonders and is the only way I can get these on. I tried a sock with the bag and that didn't work. The foot bed is roomy and my foot seems to slip around a bit but mind you, I am sockless with a bag over my foot. I think if I had bought even a half size larger, they would be slipping up and down and rub the back of my heel. The shaft is just right, I have 15"calves and could wear these with a pair of skinny jeans if I chose to. I am 5' 8.5" and the top of the shaft is two finger widths below the bend of my knee. The tread had a good nonslip traction which is important if you ride your own bike. They are a perfect fit for me other than the difficulty getting them on. I love the look of these boots so much and the leather will be nice protection while I'm out riding my motorcycle that I have decided to keep them and hopefully can get the leather broken in to stretch in time for motorcycle season.