I personally like Merrell products, but these boots were my Christmas present for my daughter. She asked for them because she already had them in black, and wears them constantly. She's so happy with them, she says she knows she'll end up wishing she had bought 6 pairs of these, to save forever. These boots are consistent with other Merrell products I own and have owned: they have quality leather, are designed and manufactured with great care, and they're hip and attractive! What more could one ask? As for sizing, they run true to size, require little to no break-in time, and are deliciously comfortable. YAY, Merrells!