I have been a HUGE fan of Bean Boots my entire life and have worn the slip-on duck boots for over 10 years. I made the move this year to get another pair (really just so that I had a pair that might be a little warmer and better for when there is more than 6" of snow) ... the boots are the BEST. They are warm, comfortable, and the option to wear them "up" or "down" is really handy, makes them more flexible.
I walk a lot, and these boots are not made for it. There is next to no support, and where the rubber attaches to the leather, the boots rub terribly. No matter what insoles, moleskin or thick socks I have tried, I end up with terrible blisters on my heels and ankles. Perhaps okay for going from the door to the car, but not if you walk around.
I finally decided to fork over the money for these boots. After trying them on and wearing them a few times, I was reassured that I got what I paid for. These are very good boots and there is no skimping on quality. They are made of good materials, feel sturdy when I walk, and of course there is the LLBean guarantee. For such a functional item, I am also very pleased that the boots are attractive and I have received compliments on them. In the past, I have never owned shearling-lined boots, but as another reviewer said, it is way better than wearing heavy socks. As far as fit goes, regular width fits my slightly-wide foot with just a tiny bit of extra space when wearing socks, but it's not so much that I feel like the boots are clunky. The length of the shoe was definitely longer than usual because I purchased a full shoe size down. My only complaint about these boots is that the top portion of the boot shaft uses holes for the laces. I would prefer quick-lace hooks because it is a hassle for me to have to loosen or tighten five rows of laces every time I want to remove or put on the boot.
I loved the color and I think it's so adorable. I am very sad to say that my legs are too big to lace up all the way up. I normally wear 9 W, and yes the measurement suggestion is correct. size 8 W worked but the leg part was too narrow.
my ankle width is 9 3/8" AND my leg width @ 10" above sole is 14 1/4" DO NOT BUY if your legs are around my size with high arch. even if you buy wide one, it won't work. the only one that worked was L.L.Bean Boots, 8" Thinsulate Tan one. (again, do not buy the lined one as it would be too small just as this one)
SO SAD because it's so adorable!!! Dear LL Bean, Please make wider leg sizes for big legs in the future!! because I love this color more than the Tan one.
