Hi, garmenta. I’m sorry to hear about your toe and foot problems. Ouch!

Do you have boots that work at the moment? What are you planning to wear with the boots? What’s your calf circumference?

Does a wider foot width usually solve your problem, or is it just a matter of finding the right toe-box?
I don't blame you for getting the search under way now -- good luck! I bet the ladies here will have all sorts of great suggestions.

A cobbler could probably spot stretch a pair of boots in the place where it hurts. There is such a thing as a toe box stretcher (that stretches vertically instead of horizontally, if that makes sense). It might be easier to find some boots you like and just have them adjusted, than to search for a pair of boots that fit as is.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/29.....88&P=3

I also have arthritis in the exact same place on my right foot. We are arthritis twins!!! Yay!
The above brand is a good shoe brand for me because the shoes are not flexable but rather roll along so no need to stress that toe. I don't know if the sizes left over from last year fit you or if you like the style but they are sure a great price if the stars are aligned.

san--
I literally feel your pain! Arthritis twins!

Thanks so much for the suggestion about the Dansko boots. The shaft size is good too--14". I'll look around for my size--I'm sure it will turn up online somewhere, if not at Nordie's. I once tried a pair of Born boots that were really close--the problem was the shaft size, not the toe box. Have you found that Born works for you at all?

Maya and Michelle--
Thanks so much for your suggestions.

Angie--
I have two pairs of boots that I can get by in--they cause bearable rather than unbearable pain. The ankle boots are Naot (http://www.shoe-store.net/c/pr.....agna.html). The knee-high boots are Aerosoles (http://www.amazon.com/Aerosole.....B000PT66KE) in red patent; the wedge is too high, and I totter in them, which is bad in snow. I'm not crazy about either one; I'd prefer a tailored rather than casual look.

I'm looking for a cold-weather, ice-and-snow knee-high dress boot to wear with my Soia & Kyo coat, which is similar to this one (http://www.soiakyo.com/app/web.....&pg=1), but mine is red. Something very simple and tailored, because all the interest is in the coat. Can't wear the red patent boots with the red coat--too much look!

Hi Garmenta

All feet are different, so it's always a matter of trial and error, but in the past I found Camper boots to be very comfortable. The ones with a round toe have a fairly wide toe box, so that could be a plus.

http://www.zappos.com/search/b.....2Womens%22

Love your coat by the way (I have the same one in a purple plaid;-)

Start looking at Uggs too – but not the bedroom slipper variety. Uggs makes millions of boot styles that are fabulous and outdoorsy looking. Their toe boxes are pretty wide and soft. Also, you’re after VERY soft leather that will stretch. How about a stretchy pull on boot?