Had to return several pairs of Ariat boot because the instep is too tight for my 'thick' feet. I might have been able to get them on, but it would have taken way too much pull and the instep would have been much too tight for me. I don't think they would ever 'give' enough to be a good fit. I tried several pairs of Ariat boots and in general it seems the instep is always tight for me. Otherwise pretty nice looking and seem to be good quality. Wish they fit me better.Dan Post boots seem to have a more generous instep for somebody with my foot shape. These fit my foot really well. True to size or maybe a bit large. I generally need 8 1/2 or 9, depending on the shoe and the 9's were kind of sloppy -loose so I returned a size 9 for this slightly different style in 8 1/2 , were maybe a bit large for an 8 1/2 but a good fit for me. I'd say that's just the manufacturer's sizing differences.These are nice looking boots and appear to be well made. If I were to find any fault with the boots, and this is my body, the tops are the tiniest bit small, if they had 1/2 inch more circumference, they would be perfect. I expect they will contour to my thick calves after a bit of wear.After 4 or 5 times wearing, the boots are great, I used some leather conditioner on the boots and they are soft and easy fitting. They seem to be conforming perfectly to my feet. The tops, almost, but not tight on my hefty calves loosen up and fit very well after a bit of wear. I'd buy again in a minute