It sounds dramatic but it's true.  I waited for the boots to arrive wondering if they'd be clunky and ugly.  I read the reviews and hoped that what everyone was saying about them was true.  I was so happy to open the box and slip them on.  They are really cute and comfortable and they do not look like clod hoppers.  I slipped my orthotic into the boots and away I went.  I normally wear an 8 or 8.5.  I ordered the 8.5 to allow room for my orthotic and 1 or 2 pairs of socks.  I can't stand for my feet to feel squeezed and smashed.  I have plenty of toe wiggle room without my foot sliding around inside the boot.  I bought these boots to keep my feet warm in really cold weather.  I have not experienced any really cold or wet weather yet but I am sure I will not be disappointed by the performance of these boots since everyone's reviews seem to be accurate so far.  I personally did not have any issues with the comfort of the heel in the boots.  These boots can be worn with a boot cut or straight (not skinny) leg jean so that the pant leg goes on the outside of the shaft/top.  If you wore a skinny jean, you'd probably want to tuck the pant leg into the shaft/top.