Upon arrival, the boot was uncomfortable due to the ICS comfort system. For the first week of use, the nylon ring very noticeable and I didn't like it at all. fortunately, the ring needed a short break-in period and became more and more enjoyable. After being on my feet for up to 18hrs a day, my feet are no longer tired and hurting. There was no real break-in period for the boot itself (other than the comfort ring). I am enjoying these boot every DRY day.
  The reason that I gave the boots only 4 stars is due to the fact that THEY ARE IN NO WAY SHAPE OR FORM, WATERPROOF OR EVEN WATER RESISTANT! My feet get soaked in a short time, in rain. Don't even think about puddles! If you spend much time in wet or snowy conditions, I would not purchase this boot.
  If I had it to do over again, I would get the Bates Delta 9 GTX with gortex lining.