These Koolaburra boots are nicely made and, yes, they are a snug fit. Size 8 is my normal shoe and slipper size and at first when I had thick socks on the boots were uncomfortably tight; without a heavy sock, the boot fit fine. I do expect them to loosen up around the ankle with time. Loosening the buckle doesn't really give you much more room as it is more decorative than functional for me.Details: Length: 10 5/8" long. Widest part of the foot area: 4 1/4" wide. Circumference around ankle (sewn area) = 13 1/2". Sole is a hard rubber EVA sole that won't mark up your floors and is 7/8" thick at the heel.The suede exterior in chestnut is a rich color and interior is sheepskin (real or faux, I can't really tell).These boots are not really meant for any snowfall over 4" or your boot will be full as the back area where the buckles are have deep slits.All in all, I like these as I am using them for indoor shoes only. I would not buy these if I meant to wear them in sloppy, slushy, sleety, lake-effect snow.