Ordering boots online is always a little risky but I have to say, the Hanwag Trapper Top GTX were awesome right out of the box. I wanted to break them in right away and went snow shoeing with them the first weekend I had them. I did snow seal them before using them but they come ready to roll right out of the box. The boots are of very high quality and have been very useful in my post season scouting forays. To me, "break in" time was minimal and I've probably worn them for 15 -25 miles now in very rough terrain. My feet stayed dry and warm and because of how much they support your feet and ankles, they motivate me to be able to traverse much more terrain. Typically, I use rubber boots and after a couple of hours I feel like I have concrete blocks on my feet. These boots have really changed that for me. If you have a wider foot I would caution to buy a wide size. My feet are generally somewhat narrow and mine fit fine but I would order a half size up if they don't offer a wider style. These are tough boots I can't wait to try them out during deer season.