I bought these boots to have something warm to wear to work, since our office building is very old and drafty. While they serve their purpose of keeping me warm, the shaft looks like banana peels being pulled back. I guess if I just stood in them and didn't walk the boots would not flare out as they do. But we all know we cannot get through any day just standing in 1 place and never taking a step. I should have just bitten the bullet and bought the other, more expensive brand. I've only owned them for like 2 months and have worn them about once a week. They look like untied combat boots where the sides and tongue fold out and down. Not impressed whatsoever with the style. I've even thought about getting a giant stapler to keep them more together/secure, but that's pretty lame to do. This will be my 1st and last pair of Bear Paws.