The ad made it clear that the top closure of the laces was a loop and the laces had loose ends. The boots that arrived had hooks on the top closure and the ends of the laces were twisted together. This, combined with the fact that the tongue is sewn in at a fairly high level of the boot, makes it difficult to put on. The fit also feels tighter than other styles, making them tighter to wear. However, once they are on they are quite comfortable, but I won't be buying another pair in this style.