Let me start by saying I returned these after wearing them for 15 minutes around the house.  I had intended to wear them to work where I'm a project manager for a construction company.  I knew once they hit the mud they'd be unreturnable.

So here was my issue.  I'm a size 16, they ran up to 17, so based on previous reviews I ordered a larger size since they apparently run small.  I got them, opened them up and immediatley tried them on.  They were very tight to put on.  There is not a lot of flex, stretch or give in the Upper (I think that's what you call it).  I got them on and standing there the fit was snug, but good.  I was happy for a moment.  Then I started to walk and my heel was all over the place, lifting with every step.  I can only imagine that this would either cause the boot (or my heel) to wear quickly.  I think the problem is the leather doesn't give much to allow your foot in, so the have to leave room in the area on top of the center of your foot (once you're in) to allow your foot in and out.  Once in though, it leaves too much room for movement.  I have to say I have Muck boots and while they're not as nice looking, the neoprene makes them a lot easier to get on and off while also holding your foot nicely.  Nice try Columbia and I really appreciate you making large sizes (hence 3 stars) but you need to go back to the drawing board on this one.  I'll gladly buy/try and inproved model.