I typically wear an 8 and since I did not see a review about the size I decided to go with my normal size. However, they ran somewhat small so I returned them for the 8.5 and am very happy with them. They seem like they are going to be great for our hike in New Hampshire. The height of the ankle is perfect and they seem very sturdy. I do agree with another reviewer who said that the tongue was slightly shorter, making it hard to use the top brackets but not using them didn't effect they way they fit.