Hands down - these boots are THE most comfortable boots right out of the box - i have 3 pairs - and i am a boot fanatic!  Sizing issue:  I bought a grey pair first as the store did not have black.  The grey were synthetic - but look great, fit great & wear great.  I found a black pair on line - ordered my size, 8.5, but they happen to be leather and were very tight.  At the time I could not find the black in a 9, so i kept the black leather 8.5 thinking they would stretch.  They never did and hence this year I found black in a 9 and bought them.  This pair is black synthetic and they are a bit roomy.  Hence, if you are getting the synthetic, the size seems to be right on.  If you are getting leather, they seem to be a bit smaller.  Overall for look, comfort durability & style these are fantastic!  Never had an issue with any breaking buckles like some other reviews.  I work in a law firm and they are definitely nice enough to wear with dresses & skirts.  Oh, and the black synthetic have a weird black color - almost charcoal-black instead of a deep black.  I HIGHLY recommend these!