New England weather will be no match for these boots! They are super warm and comfy. The boots fit true to size. The quality is very high - the bottoms also have traction to prevent slipping in nasty weather. I expect to wear these boots for many years! I highly recommend them to anyone who wants a warm and safe boot!
These are really fabulous boots, for a number of reasons.
Warmth -- the shearling is very thick -- it will provide plenty of warmth.
Size -- My left foot is a little larger than my right foot, and my right foot is exactly 8-1/2. I got the size 8 -- and they fit perfectly, with an additional 3/4-inch at the toe so the foot isn't cramped.
Calf leather comes up 12-inches, from the top of the rubber shoe (not the sole of the shoe, the top lip of the shoe) providing enough coverage for most snow drifts in our area.
Boot leather top circumference is about 7-1/2 inches circumference around the top, I'm referring to the leather going around the calf-portion of the leg -- there is plenty of room for me to stuff my slacks into these boots, and zip them up easily.
Style -- these boots, in the neutral brown, seem very fashionable, in a rugged sort of way to me.
I'm very temped to buy another pair, just as a spare!
Hopefully, LLBean will be carrying these boots for a number of years -- and IF we get LUCKY -- they will even add them in colors! (Hint: Navy blue, possibly black?, maybe Burgundy?)
These boots are (I hope) exactly what I was looking for. As it is now only October I cannot speak on their ultimate test in the super cold of New England or Alaska (the two places I will be wearing them this winter). I was looking for boots that are waterproof -- they have proven they are, stylish -- they look great with skirts and pants alike, and warm. So far they have been quite warm, but as I said, it hasn't been terribly cold yet. The fleece lining is awesome, but I have a feeling there is not enough other insulation to sustain really cold walks without super warm socks. They are however roomy -- I wear a 9, ordered a 9 and have room for thick socks and wool tights. They are also fine for walking, but not as full of arch support and the like. All in all, these are a great fashion waterproof warm boot, but if you are looking for something that will keep you warm on the trail or on long walks or without much other insulation, I would say these boots are not for you.
.....My husband bought these. Beautiful construction, however I wish that they had a removable and or replaceable sheering footbed. I think the sheering will get worn down someday!
