These are probably the best pair of boots I've ever owned, and I've been looking for a great pair of boots for fifteen years. They're almost flawless. I did have to punch an extra hole in the straps, as other reviewers have said; and the closeness of fit around the calves (which is part of what makes these boots a great find) caused a good deal of chafing/discomfort, and they're too tall for normal socks. Solution: I bought high, elastic soccer socks. Problem solved. Look: incredible. I'm probably going to order a back-up pair, just in case they disappear from the market.