I didn't need a new pair of boots, the ones I had were in very good nick, standard height, zip and velcro closure. The only issue I had was that occasionally the left boot was tight when my ankles swelled up - I am 71, so it happens now and then, - they still fitted ok but were a bit of a struggle on those occasions. So I started looking for a velcro - adjustable closure short boot. These appealed as their appearance was good and the closure method fitted my brief. The price was probably twice what I was budgeting to pay but after reading a few reviews and watching more on youtube I decided to at least have a look. In a normal shoe I take a 10.5 or 11 so I had the store show me the 10.5, the 11 and the 12. Thinking that should cover the bases. Straightaway the 10.5 was too small, the 11 I could get on and didn't feel to bad, a little snug, not tight, but hey! they were new and leather so I expected that knowing they would "wear in". I may well have been tempted to buy this size were it not for the fat ankle issue. So then I tried on the size 12 boots. Placed sole to sole with the size 11 they didn't look to me to be any longer! They fitted comfortably and I knew that as the inside gusset was the waterproof part the boot only needed to be held firm with the velcro closures. I was pleasantly surprised when the long velcro fastener didn't over reach the wooly part but it was a bit fiddly to get it to sit flat. The top fastener sat fine and the strap across the ankle pulled up nice and snug. I used them first in anger in the middle of July'26 for a 5 day tour around south wales and I was happy with my purchase. I found that my foot had to relearn my gear shift position and the top fastener should be done up firmly. I left it looser a couple of times and the top of the boot rubbed and would dig into the front and back of my calf as I moved my foot to change gear and brake. Overall I am pleased with these boots and my other pairs will be relegated to the back of the cupboard for the foreseeable future. They are ok to wander around in but not all day I would think, a few hours or 4 around a show or museum should be fine. So far they seem well made and comfortable and I am glad I made the extra spend.