I had a front zip pair of northface (which they dont seem to make any more so maybe that is a sign). I had a problem with my heel slipping in them when I went snow shoeing, thus I bought them in the lace up version...def an improvement. My heel no longer slips, they have good ankle support and are as warm and comfy and dry as my old pair, which i still keep for causal wear on snowy tahoe nights and after snowboarding.
To prevent ankle bite, I tie the lower portion tight and put in a half knot around the eyelet to secure the snugness and then keep the top ankle portion less tight.
I bought mine a size smaller than usual ad they fit great with a thin pair of socks (which is all that is needed because they are so warm.

I have these boots in a size 7. I like the way they feel and look. They always keep my feet warm in winter conditions and while camping. However, whenever I wear these boots hiking and snowshoeing, they rub the back of my legs and it gets quite painful depending how far you go. Maybe its just me, but I need something more comfortable for extended hiking.

They are definitely cute looking and warm, but they do rub your legs a little bit at the top. They are also kind of tight around the tops of my feet. I wear an 8 and I got them in 8 1/2 so maybe go an entire size larger than you normally would.

I ordered these and loved them except I have a high instep and the boot squished top of my foot so badly that pain shot up my leg. I would of loved to keep them but they were just too tight.

Though precious to look at, these boots are very uncomfortable to stand in for long periods of time and they rubbed the skin on both ankles raw! Ouch! I had to return them. However, if you do plan on buying them, it is very advisable to buy at least a half size to a size larger than you normally wear. I did that based on the recommendations here, but the ankle problem cannot be fixed.

Bought these boots for my girlfriend. Great look, stability, and function but they caused her pain and discomfort around her ankles. Had to return for refund.

These do their job - keep your feet warm and dry. However, my feet tend to get a little numb if I sit with them on for too long. I've worn them to work (in an office) a few times and they got pretty uncomfortable. These are great for traction on ice an snow, and keep your feet nice and toasty. Great for wearing to the mountain - not so much for around town.

Great for short duration exposure in the extreme temperatures of the north.
It may be suitable for regions where the winters are milder.
Prone to moisture build up with extended use and would not be reliable for longer excursions.

My Chilkats are my primary winter boot. I use them for snowblowing tasks, walking my dogs, hiking and snowshoeing. I agree with other reviewers that getting the right size is key as they are rigid enough that you can't really 'break' them in. These rugged boots take a little practice lacing them properly for the type of excursion you are taking. I wear a 7.5 in most shoes and got these in an 8 and they fit me well with a medium heavy sock. I would definitely buy another pair when these wore out.

These boots were given as a Christmas gift to my daughter and she LOVES how warm and comfy cushioned they feel. Tempted to buy myself a pair.

glad i bought them...best pair of boots i have owned

I HAVE A PAIR MYSELF AND HAD TO GET MY GIRLFRIEND A PAIR TOO, GOOD THING BECAUSE WE JUST MOVED TO CHICAGO AND THIS IS THE WOST WINTER EVER! GREAT GRIP, DRY, AND YOUR FEET ARE ALWAYS COMFORTABLE NO MATTER WHAT SOCKS HAVE. IF YOU LIKE TO BE IN THE SNOW AROUND TOWN OR AT THE CABIN THESE ARE FOR YOU!

Bought these as a gift for the wife, she absolutely loves them. We live in New England, and she uses them for her commute to and from work, and finds them comfortable and dry. Would have liked to try them on...but overall, a good boot.

The boots are working out great! They keep my feet dry and very warm I love them!