LOVE these boots. I thought about Uggs, but when I tried Ugg styles on in the shoe store, I immediately noticed the slippery soles. They were like ice skates on the carpet, so I told the salesman 'no thanks!' He tried to tell me that this was just the factory "finish" and that nice they were scuffed by outside wear, they would no longer be slippery. Hah! I read the review above mine, and realized this was pure BS. The minute I put on these Emu boots, they gripped both carpet and linoleum with no effort. I have severe arthritis, so falling is not an option! The quality of the boot is evident: the seams are double stitched, the leathers and wool used very nice, the belt and antiqued hardware are well done, and they fit perfectly with no socks. I also appreciate the removable insole, just in case I need to dry them out or replace. While the look is not exactly haute fashion (they are a bit clunky looking), they're still going to pass for work with cute pants and maybe even a short skirt with tights. Also, they are not as heavy as some boots, which I also appreciate. I am so happy I decided on the Emu rather than Uggs. And Zappos? Your shipping was the fastest in the world. I opened for free standard shipping and they arrived two days after I ordered. Pretty fantastic customer service is all I have to say. I even enjoyed your cute and happy email updates.