These boots are incredibly comfortable.  The soles are toothy and have great grip, but they are still light weight so they help keep fatigue at bay.  I've always had athletic calves so finding tall boots has been a challenge.  These boots fit wonderfully.  The shaft is wide at the top, so it would allow for room to tuck in jeans if you have smaller calves, or allow room for great fit for those of us with wider calves.  I think the shaft measures 16" in circumference in a size 9.  The pebble leather feels very durable, but is still quite soft.  Something I read on another site before purchasing here...these will definitely stretch to accomodate and custom fit your calves if they are tight when you put them on.  Just wear them for a few hours and they'll give a little.  The top seems slightly fluted, so they don't even have any "muffin top" problems.  My left calf measures 16" around and the boot fits perfectly.  My right measures 16 1/2" around and the boot went on with minimal effort and after about 4 days of wear (not continuous) is loose and comfortable.  I always get compliments on these boots.  They go great with mid-length and longer skirts and keep my legs warm.