I purchased two pair of these boots one for my daughter size 7 black and myself size 6 chocolate brown. We live in N. California so the warmth of the boots were not why we purchased these boots it was however for the styling! I wear a regular size 6 and was concerned they would be too large, they are NOT they do fit to a tee, I am very happy with them and yes although they take a little bit extra time to get the ties just right it is well worth the effort.  My daughter is between a 6 and a 7 in boots depending on the style(she has a wider foot, and larger calves than myself) but the size 7 are very comfortable for her. The top of the toe on the boot has more room than the size 6 does yes I did try them on also for comparison. I can wear the 6 or 7 and still be comfortable although I have to wear socks in the 7.  As for the feel of warmth yes they do keep you toasty warm.