Customer Reviews The North Face Shellista IV Tall
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278
278 total reviewsReview Breakdown:
71%5Rated 5 stars out of 5
17%4Rated 4 stars out of 5
7%3Rated 3 stars out of 5
3%2Rated 2 stars out of 5
2%1Rated 1 star out of 5
Customer Fit Survey:
51%"Felt true to size"
89%"Felt true to width"
92%"Moderate arch support"
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Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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I wear a 7.5 or an 8, depending on the shoe. It took four tries to get the right size in these. 7.5 was TIGHT! 8 was TIGHT. 8.5 ... was it the right size? I wasn't sure, so I got a 9 as well to test it out. Only then was I sure that the 8.5 was the right size. But I never would have gone to all the trouble if there wasn't something wonderfully, satisfyingly intriguing about the boot. They're great looking but they're quite expensive. They're really tall - as another reviewer wrote, they're almost too tall if you're on the short side -- but if I didn't want full coverage, then I wouldn't be looking at tall boots. Having now taken the plunge, removed the extra set of laces and worn them outside (in the woods and for shopping), I'm delighted to report that I'm really happy with the purchase. They're very comfortable. They tie up nice and snug so that with leggings, I don't expect snow to so easily fall down inside the way snow always did with my high muck boots when I go snowshoeing. I've had no trouble with pants (jeans and other pants) going over them, I disagree with another reviewer on that score. My only two critical comments -- For shoppers: These are tall and stiff boots, which if why I like them, but it requires one to flex one's calf to get them off and at least once, I got a bit of a calf charlie horse. If your mobility is limited, that could be a problem. For the manufacturer: the laces are WAY WAY WAY too long and that's a real pain. The laces obviously need to be long to work in a boot like this, and the laces are distinctive so you can't replace them easily without mucking up the styling of them, but when they're laced up snuggly, there's between 16-18" of extra lacing at the top. I already had this snag on branches because even double tied, it flops around. Yesterday, I tied it around the back but that's not ideal.
Anonymous, Zappos Customer,
19 found this review helpful.
Overall4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style3Rated 3 stars out of 5
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These boots are almost comically tall on my short (I'm 5'4") legs and kind of make them look "chubby" as they have to go over my pants (no way you could fit these under your pants) but are very comfortable and warm (I'm in MN, so warmth is my #1 concern). I ordered in a 9.5 which is 1/2 size larger than my normal shoe size but I'm going to exchange them for 10's. I can tell just from walking around in them in my home that they are going to be very warm and keep out the wind/snow/water.
I'd also recommend:
Dansko, Naot, Birkenstock, Ahnu
Anonymous, Zappos Customer,
11 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
I was skeptical to order a tall boot due to having bigger calves so I took a chance. These boots fit and passed all my expectations. They arrived with 2 pairs of laces one gray & black the other red & black. No need for breaking in they are comfortable on first wear
Marie,
10 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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I was very pleased with these. Normally I wear Sorel, but find them heavy. These are light and very well made. Perfect for northern Wisconsin.
Anonymous, Zappos Customer,
5 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
I absolutely LOVE these boots! Tried them on and don't ever want to take them off. I'm a size 10 and find them to be perfectly true to size. They're adorable over jeans but cute enough to wear with a skirt, too, and so warm and comfy. No issues with the lacing/ankle fit for me as some others have reported (and I have tiny ankles for my foot size). They're surprisingly quick and easy to get into compared to other tall lace-up boots I've owned. I've been wearing them around for hours and my feet feel great, which is saying something because I have plantar fasciitis and almost all new shoes make my feet hurt. These feel amazing, though. Can't wait for it to get colder and start snowing so I can wear them all the time!
B,
4 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
I bought these boots to handle the cold and snow of Northern Wisconsin winters and they are awesome! They have a nice sturdy structure with solid but cozy linings. Making them nice and warm. I did buy a 1/2 size bigger than usual and I am glad that I did. They will be an almost everyday boot for me. They have pretty good traction on the ice too, which is awesome. They slip on nice without having to unlace, just loosen a bit and then tie up super easy. Great boot! Worth the price.
A N,
4 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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For the multiple inch snowfalls and extreme cold we get here on a weekly basis in Minnesota, I was looking for a boot that protected me from the elements. This fit the bill! I tested these in snow that drifted a foot high and temps down to -6, my legs and feet stayed warm and dry. Daily walks in warmer (10 degree) weather were also comfortable, no need to break these boots in at all. The only issue is getting them on and off can be a challenge, but in exchange for the comfort and cuteness level, I'll take it!
I'd also recommend:
Sorel
Anne, Zappos Customer,
4 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
These look exactly like the picture. I got them in black and look better with the black laces rather than the red. I felt the red made them look like utility boots. They're very warm and very well made. Fashionable and a good solid winter snow boot
Smart S,
4 found this review helpful.
Overall3Rated 3 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
Strengths: For walking in cold, snowy, wet conditions, these boots seem really good -- they are warm, waterproof, and quite tall so provide a lot of protection. Also, the red laces on the black boots are cute, and I did not notice the problem some other people complained about with respect to the laces being too long.
Weaknesses: These boots are heavy, fairly stiff, and require lots of lacing, all of which makes them impractical for everyday use. Essentially, they are a lot of boot -- in anything other than snowstorm conditions, you may not need something like this. If it is cold but not snowing hard out, these boots are more than you need and more trouble than they are worth. So think about what you really need before you buy these. As to the fit, I have the same problem another reviewer mentioned, which is that they kind of pouf out or sag at the ankles. Also, they are somewhat wide in the heel and I don't have particularly narrow heels. Otherwise the fit is fine.
J,
4 found this review helpful.
Overall3Rated 3 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
This is my third winter with my shellista boots and they really are almost the perfect winter shoe. They're so cute, incredibly comfortable for walking long distances, have great traction on ice, and always keep my feet dry...the only problem that I've found is that the toes really aren't insulated, so my feet start to get really cold after a little while playing in the snow with my kids or if temps are below the 20's in general. Maybe if I had bought a half size up I could wear super thick socks or put a hot hands warmer by my toes?
Mountain M,
4 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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These boots are not only warm but also quite stylish! Don't be afraid of the red laces - the boots also come with gray laces, I've attached a picture here. Wide-calved ladies - these boots will fit! I have very muscular calves and it's hard to fit boots, but thanks to the lacing these work great. And, they're relatively easy to slip on and off too, which is hard to find in tall boots. It hasn't snowed here yet, so I can't review how effective they are in the snow, but I got quite warm wearing them in the house and they seem very well-constructed. They are a tad heavy, but that's to be expected in serious snow boots, and they're lighter than other boots I was considering, especially Sorels. They feel comfortable right out of the box. I bought these for heavy-duty weather and the Shellista II Roll-Down for everyday winter use, very pleased with both. I usually wear a 9.5, bought the size 10, and they fit great with or without thick socks.
I'd also recommend:
Sorel, Columbia
Anonymous, Zappos Customer,
3 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
i live in chicago and we just got snow not to long ago.
literally a day ago. these were perfect because it has been windy and snowy out. good thing i got these ahead of time and i was prepared. it's been so cold already. i am wearing them right now and i get cold easily so these are perfect. i felt like a kid at christmas getting these lol haha. last year we had a brutal winter and i wasn't prepared but this year is different. i recommend these to anyone who needs a good pair of winter boots. they def keep your feet warm. i also got myself a pair of boot socks as well for extra warmth. don't forget to get yourself a leather protector for these boots.
Whoiscaren,
3 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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These are the best boots I’ve ever had! As seen in other reviews, I ordered a half-size larger because I have bunions. Perfectly comfortable, so warm. I live in upstate NY and we often get more than a foot of snow. These boots are up to my knees. With laces, I should be able to keep snow out. And they were delivered in the mail in 5 days!
Kathie, Zappos Customer,
2 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
These boots are extremely warm. They appear to be a city boot but they work well in 8+ inches of snow. I wear them on mild hikes when the temps are in single digits, haven't tried them below zero yet. I wear a 7.5 and I bought a 7.5, though I could have sized up to an 8 to wear extra thick socks. So far I haven't had to worry about thick socks because the boots have been so warm. I replaced the laces with 72" waxed brown laces for a more authentic look. The upper leather appearance have slowly worn to look rugged so I wanted the laces to match. 10/10 boots!!
S,
2 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
I have a pet care business and walk dogs M-F, 9-4. I live in Maine and am outdoors for hours in the elements. I walk approximately 7 miles per day, and need new boots each year. I do a lot of research on boots for the new winter season. I need them to have good tread that is also anti-slip, be waterproof and warm in really low temps, tall to keep out snow, breathable, and with good support. Plus, I want them to be something I enjoy looking at everyday, because that's the plan - something versatile enough in looks to be able to do that. I ordered these because they seem check all the boxes (except for support) and got great reviews. I have only worn them one day and so far so good, although I'm waiting to see how warm they are in cold and snow.
The D,
2 found this review helpful.
Overall4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Comfort4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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I am normally a nine in a shoe size. I noticed the reviews talking about go up 1/2 a size. Since I have a daughter who had a pair similar in North Face I went up a whole size and glad that I did. I am planning to wear these for everyday running errands in the snow and slop. These boots are a bit stiff and I hope they loosen up a bit with wearing them. They are not meant for extreme cold. They are not meant to wear heavy socks. If you have wide feet, these boots are very narrow. I do like them and think they will fit the need for everyday out and about.
Anonymous, Zappos Customer,
2 found this review helpful.
Overall4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
These are great boots. The upper material is very warm. I have athletic legs and calves from playing soccer all my life and the laces make it a perfect fit. Plenty of room in the upper. Unfortunately it's pretty snug in the toe box. Last thing you want is tight toes when It is cold out. I will hopefully just exchange for a 9 instead of the 8.5 I have. The will need to be broken in, but I do like that about them as they will get better with age.
MoYo,
2 found this review helpful.
Overall1Rated 1 star out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face CA
Its a though the people who designed this assume that ALL women have skinny legs with no shape. I have very fit legs and so my calves cannot fit in these boots or any of north face tall boots. Its almost discrimintation or generalizing in a way when NONE of the tall boots north face carries it just for skinny bony women with no shaped calves. And it is surprising because this company apparel are supposed to be designed for active people which is why i looked on this website. So active women are supposed to have stick like legs and calves?
Fit W,
2 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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I am consistently a size 7.5. Never order up. I got these in 8 because I tried on my friend’s boots and her’s were 8, and I liked them. They keep my legs nice and warm trudging in the snow. The red laces give them some style. Very comfortable and easy to get on. I might slog around town in them, but I ended up buying a shorter bootie for outfits. Great to throw over some leggings and walk the dog in the snow. Obviously in the photos you can see I’m trying to decide between two boots. I couldn’t decide, so I kept both. ??
Sarah, Zappos Customer,
1 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
These boots allowed me to run and play with my dogs in a foot of fresh snow. They kept
Snow out of the lining and my toes warm. The sole does have a good grip for basic conditions, but also can fit yak-tracks for icier days. These are the best snow boats I have bought.
Wholefoodie,
1 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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Just what I was looking for. Wool and leather and waterproof and very warm. I wanted something I could walk in winter in Michigan while stay dry. These are easy to get on and also very cute. They do run small. I am normally a 9 or 9.5 and I got the 10’s. Luckily they are warm because thick socks would be too tight.
Lisa, Zappos Customer,
1 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Reviewed at The North Face US
My shoe size is a 7 1/2 I figured that with a thick pair of socks and extra size will be perfect, 8 1/2 is perfect. I love how tall they are and so comfy.
O,
1 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
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It fit perfect. Totally massive for all my snow activities. I'm amazedI'm a first time user and I'll use you guys again. The best toughest most waterproof stylish for snow
Anonymous, Zappos Customer,
1 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort4Rated 4 stars out of 5
Style5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Verified PurchaseReview for Zappos VIP Points(What's this?)
I really wanted to keep these but the tow pocket was a bit too narrow for my feet. I do tend to have a wider foot after having kids and running so much, so I will be regretfully returning these. I really like the look of them and how high they come up on your calf. It would have been nice to have something like this in Chicago.
Anonymous, Zappos Customer,
1 found this review helpful.
Overall5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Comfort5Rated 5 stars out of 5
Style4Rated 4 stars out of 5
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The fit was small. I usually wear size 10 but I went up to a 10.5. I thought the fit of 10.5 was perfect! I love these boots! I tried two other more expensive brands, but I couldn’t get past how comfortable and warm these boots are. I returned the others and kept these! I love how tall these boots are. I also love how warm they are! They didn’t need any break-in period. They were very comfortable from the first time I put them on. They are easy to get on and off with the laces loosened. The ankle is a bit loose but 8 believe that’s why they are eas6 to get on and off. These are lightweight too. I live in northern Illinois and walk my dogs 4 times a day. These are the perfect boot for me! They are warm, and waterproof, and comfortable. I hope they last a very long time because these are quickly becoming my favorite winter boots!
I'd also recommend:
Ugg. Sorel.
Leslie, Zappos Customer,
1 found this review helpful.