I live in northern MN and am embarrassed to say that I hadn't owned a proper pair of winter boots in years-- not until my toddler was old enough to play in the snow.  Then I realized, hey-- I need good boots so I can play and keep up with him.  I looked around locally (with limited time-- so yeah, I didn't search every store) -- couldn't find a single thing I liked.  So I got online and found these.  I got them and I LOVE them.  I wear them to and from work now to save wear and tear on my shoes-- and they even look pretty cute with leggings (though not dressy).  They're warm and I normally wear a size 9.5 -- these are a little loose with thin socks, but totally wearable-- and I can double up on thick socks in them and still be fine.