So sorry for my relatively long absence! But I'm back with some good news. Today I bring you some great Cole Haan narrow calf boots -- the
Tilley II. This style has top and circumference measurements very similar to the Cole Haan
Adler boot I reviewed here two years ago, but the Tilley's ankle is about an inch smaller around, making it (for those of us with bony ankles as well as thin calves) not exactly fitted, but arguably more flattering than the Adler in that sometimes deal-breaking area.
Both boots have a stretchy back side that may or may not be your thing, but overall I think the Tilley II's look is nice and sleek.
Measurements for the Tilley, size 8: The opening up top is 14" around. The midcalf circumference is 13 inches. And the ankle circumference is 10.5 inches. As for shaft height, in size 8 this boot is about 15.75" tall -- so fairly petite friendly, unless you're very short or have proportionally quite short legs.
The stretch section has a subtle diamond pattern to it and -- nice touch -- a strip of leather running up the back of the boot.
Unlike the Adler, the Tilley isn't a pull-on style; it features a full inside zip.
The footbed is lightly padded. The sole, while not the slipperiest I've tried, isn't super grippy. So keep that in mind if you wear on slick surfaces.
Caveat on foot fit: To me, the 8 feels more like a true 7.5. If you
are between half sizes, my advice would be to go with the larger of your
two normal sizes. And even if you're not between sizes but plan to wear
very thick socks under these narrow calf boots, consider going up a half-size size
anyway.
Rating:
Beauty/style: ****/5
Value: ****/5
Calf slimness: ****/5
In brown & black.
Find it at:
Amazon -- for 50% off as of late January 2017! Yes!
