I have to say the beauty and quality of these boots exceeded my expectations; I knew they would be nice boots but they are beyond nice. The leather-work is just plain gorgeous, the embellishments are beautiful without being over the top and the construction is sturdy. I found the boots to be comfortable from the first time I put them on, no "breaking in" required for me. I purchased a size 8 in these although I normally wear a 7.5 ( I almost always purchase an 8 in boots to accommodate thicker socks in the Fall and Winter.) I found these to be true to size. The calves are a tad bit looser on me than I would prefer but nothing a boot cuff can't easily remedy. I have smaller calves (13.5") so it's not unusual for a pull-on boot to be a bit looser on me. There is a short zipper at the ankle which makes taking the boots off and putting them on much easier than they would be without.