Let me start by saying I've been on the hunt for the perfect pair of riding boots that won't break the bank. The LONDON FOG Irie boots caught my eye with their classic design and wide calf option (16.5 inches!). As someone with athletic calves, this was a major selling point.

The first thing I noticed when trying them on was how easily they slid onto my feet - no awkward hopping around or needing to use the side zipper. The 1.25-inch heel gives just enough lift without being uncomfortable for all-day wear. Walking my dog in them felt natural, and the non-slip soles handled wet leaves like a champ.

However, I did notice the faux leather material feels exactly like what it is - synthetic. While it looks decent (the textured brown hides imperfections well), you can tell it's not genuine leather when you touch it. They do run slightly small; I'd recommend sizing up if you plan to wear thicker socks.

One unexpected plus? These boots are WARM. Perfect for chilly fall days but potentially sweaty if you tend to run hot. The interior lining feels cozy against bare legs when wearing tights.

The style walks a nice line between dressy and casual - they pair equally well with skinny jeans as they do with skirts. That said, quality seems inconsistent based on other reviews; some pairs have held up beautifully while others had zipper or button issues early on.

For the price point, these are solid everyday boots if you manage your expectations about materials. They won't replace premium leather boots, but they'll get you through several seasons of moderate wear looking stylish.