If you search through eBay just for thigh boots alone, you'll see at least 10 different vendors. Some are 1st class quality and some are not. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision on where to shop.

#1: Look at the photos that the seller uses. Do they use ALL catalog shots or do they use use a model or model their own items? Many sellers claim to be experts in what they sell. When you see a seller that at least uses 60% or better of their own photos you'll know that they do have an idea of the fit, comfort, and durability of the shoes or boots. The seller has taken time to take the photos in the first place and hasn't just grabbed a bunch of photos from their suppliers website. Back in the days when I first started collecting boots I would only buy from a seller who wore the boots for their own listings.

#2: Look at their shipping options. If the seller only offers UPS and will not deliver to PO Boxes or APO, etc then that is a hint that they do not stock the shoes or boots. Vendors such as Ellie and Pleaser USA will drop ship from their warehouse using UPS. This means that you are buying something that may or may not be in stock at the time of the sale. Also look at the shipping time. If the seller states a two week delivery time then they may be ordering the items after you win the auction and then shipping them to you.

#3: Know your size and ask questions about the fit. We have a handy shoe size conversion chart on our website that makes finding the correct US size much easier. Again, ask questions. Don't let vanity get in the way. You might wear a size 7 in those Wal-Mart running shoes, but a pair of 5 inch heel boots might just take an 8 to be comfortable. I'm sorry, but you may find that your calves just won't fit in some of the leather thigh boots. Always ask questions about calf and thigh measurements.

#4: Know your limits on heel heights. Those 6 inch heels might look hot as hell in the photo but what do you plan on wearing them for? Be practical and know that 6 inch heels are really for the bedroom. Some 5 inch heels can be comfortable enough to wear for an evening of dancinng. 4 inch heels for most women can be worn comfortably for a day at the mall. Now, take into account the platforms as well. I like 6 inch heels with at least a 1 inch platform. In reality, it makes the heel 5 inches and it allows me to look down upon my subjects. Ha HA! Many styles of platforms can be quite comfortable for all day (or all night) wear. Again, ask the seller about their experience in that particular pair of shoes or boots.

#5: Don't really expect to return shoes and boots if they don't fit: Sorry, but most sellers have gone to a zero return policy. First, you should ask all your questions and get guidance from the seller before you click the buy it now button. If you don't and you get stuck with something that doesn't fit, then it is on you. Another reason is that the profit margin on most shoes and boots is already so small a seller could eat the profit quickly by paying to reship a second pair. KNow what you are buying!

#6: Know the materials the shoes and boots are made of: Be careful of ads that read "like leather". Sorry, it's not leather! PU or Polyurethane is just that. It is fake leather. Not to say that isn't ok. Some of the hottest boots I have seen (and best fitting around the calves) have been PU. One manufacturer is now making some PU boots that look so much like latex that it isn't funny. Keep in mind that if you find real latex boots or hand crafted leather boots from places like the Little Shoe Box that these don't sell for $25 a pair. These are super high end boots and they demand super high end prices. Know that there is a difference in leather as well. The "norm" for most mass production thigh boots makers now is pig leather. It is tough and durable and looks great as long as you take care of it. I like to use a product called "Aussie Oil" on my leather thigh boots and it makes them as supple as lambskin. You may also run into real cow leather boots as well as lambskin. Be sure to ask the seller about the material if they don't oepnly state it.

I hope you find this guide helpful no matter who you decide to shop with. As always, feel free to drop me an email if you have any questions.

Lady Sultry