LONG review, but I am providing info I always wish I had before a purchase...

most important, this boot is GORGEOUS.  I was looking at the brown color, but it sold out in my size.  I saw the "grey" color, and since I only choose to purchase LEATHER boots, I ordered them in "grey leather."  to my happy surprise they are NOT grey- the are a neutral taupe, almost a medium beige color- I love them, the color is so easy to match with black, but even brown.

the small zipper on the ankle is just right for getting your foot in, and is fairly unnoticeable. the braid trim along the entire shaft is what makes these boots stunning- makes me want to wear them with a skirt!

some reviewers have complained about the mock distressing- I do agree, it's unnecessary and a bit of a glitch- it appears to be some type of wax applied to the spots- it is not distressed or dyed.  I used a wire brush to soften up the spots and it helped to resurface the original material, but not 100%.  it is fairly subtle, and I am sure if I don't like it in the future, I can take it to a shoe shop for a really inexpensive touch-up.

My shoe size is normally anywhere from 8 - 9 depending on the type of shoe- with boots I usually order a 9 because I can wear a heavy sock. These boots are roomy in the toe box, and with a 9 I even had wiggle-room.