Anyone with calves over 14 inches knows the sheer hell of the search for the knee-high boot! I put these on right out of the box and zipped them up with nary a pause and I have calves that measure 15 1/2 inches, I do have slimmer ankles and these are quite snug in the lower leg , so if you have heavier lower legs these may not work for you. My feet are quite wide and I had no problems and my very high arches were also not a problem. These boots are gorgeous, a lovely matte black leather and perfect with dresses, skirts and jeans and leggings, I would imagine, the heel gives a nice lift and elevates the look also. I highly recommend , the craftsmanship is lovely and they look as if they will last a long time.