Earth Wickwire Ankle Boots- Side Zip (For Women)

I am a university student studying in a very hilly city that gets a lot of rain. Walking is my primary mode of transportation, as I don't have a car. I needed something that did not have much heel (too painful on the hills!), would be comfortable and durable enough to cover a lot of ground, and would keep my feet relatively dry in the rain. Bonus points for aesthetics. To make this criterion even more difficult, I have duck feet--short and wide-- and strong arch.

These boots are just about perfect! Good quality, very pretty, go well with a dress, leggings, or plain jeans. Extremely comfortable--the arch support is wonderful. Just enough of a heel to add a fashionable flair, but still low enough that I can comfortably get around the city by foot. After reading prior reviews, I went with the black in size 8. My normal shoe size varies between 8 and 8.5, due to the odd shape of my feet.

Note that while I did rate these boots at 5 star, a few warnings for future purchasers: yes, these boots are leather and will stretch to fit your feet. They are now extremely comfortable and fit well. HOWEVER, they did require some breaking in. The first time I wore them I walked a bit too far in socks a bit too worn out, and got a quarter-sized rub spot on my right heel. Ouch! After wearing them around the house paired with extra-thick socks and small excursions, though, they are fitting quite well now. Just think hard about the half-size difference, if you tend to go between one or the other. They may be a bit snug at first if you err on the side of smaller.

If it helps at all, my mountaineering boots are a size 39 (New Zealand sizing) to accommodate heavy wool socks, so if you're going to be wearing these in a colder climate, I'd suggest you round a half-size up.

I would describe myself as practical, active, and prioritizing comfort and versatility for clothing. Mornings are a ten minute 'out the door looking presentable' routine: jeans, nice shirt, often a scarf and jacket and something done with my hair. These boots fit in perfectly, I am extremely happy with them! Very sophisticated, after some breaking in they, fit my impossible feet, and are beautiful. Definitely recommended!