: Boots typically run larger than sneakers. If you wear a size 12 sneaker, a size 11 or 11.5 boot often fits better.

: High-quality leather (like those from Thursday Boot Company ) will stretch and mold to your feet. An initially snug, "firm handshake" fit is ideal.

To get the right fit, you generally should by half a size from your standard sneaker size for leather boots , while sizing up is often necessary for hiking or winter boots to accommodate thick socks. When to Size Down