I bought these to hike in snow rather than just running around town.  So far, they have met my needs for hour long hikes in ankle to calf-deep snow on uneven ground.  No, they're not going to keep you from slipping or sliding 100% of the time, but overall I feel secure in them and my feet stay warm.  I wear an 8 normally, but took the good advice of other reviewers and ordered up a 1/2 size to accommodate wool socks.