Many many years I've worked in snake country and never put on anything but Red Wings, but about 8 years ago I got a place that is covered in cottonmouths - I HATE Cottonmouths..... I saw one and stopped walking one morning on a woods trail. Looking for a way around I saw 4 more within 5 feet of me. I backed up, went to the truck and ordered a pair of Danner's. Been wearing them 8 years now. They are the lace up with the full zipper up the side and waterproof ( goretex). Great boots. I tried a pair of Chipps when I worked STX, but they didn't fit my upper calves and rubbed something serious. Gave them away. Moral to the story is get boots that fit you. Good luck.