I almost didn't get the right size or for that matter buy them at all based on the reviews that I read on here.  They are true to size like other Frye boots.  I wear a 9 1/2 and the 9 1/2 fits perfectly.  The leather on the top leather is not something that I would worry about tearing.  True, it's slightly challenging to get your foot past the ankle part, but in my opinion it's worth it not to have a zipper and the thickness of the leather is sturdy and like a more rugged scrunch boot that I have from Frye.  They are more slim than the Jane Stitch, which is what I wanted since I plan to wear them with a sleek dress, but they're not so tight that there's a problem or that I couldn't wear them with jeans.  My calves are not large, but they are not skinny either.  They are proportional to my 5'9" athletic build.  I got these for a fraction of the cost on 6pm.com - $164 in a cool antique brown color!  Get them!!