Unlike some other reviewers, I found these boots difficult to put on, at least the first time. Once I got them on, however, they felt perfect. The instep is rather snug, but except for the problem of getting my foot past the tight spot into the footbed, I like it that way.  The leather used for the shaft and instep is very soft, so the instep feels snugly wrapped rather than squeezed. The leather on the shoe portion is sturdier. These boots are cool looking and comfortable.  I'm going to invest in a shoe horn.