I bought these boots because I live in Virginia, and, because we get below freezing at night and above freezing during the day, walking the dogs is either a frozen or muddy proposition.  I had been using my leather hiking boots, but found it impossible to keep them clean.  So, I needed a boot that I could wash off without hurting the fabric.  These boots fit the bill perfectly!  They are warm and comfortable (even have somewhat of an arch support!).  I was a little worried when I saw the tread because it looked like they would hold the dirt, but it turns out that, because the sole flexes, they drop the mud in the treads better than my hiking boots!  So I don't track as much mud in the house, which is always a good thing.  :-)