Riding boots - should they be really snug?

Im normally an 11/12 in shoesa and have just bought my first set of riding boots off ebay in size 12. They are Frank thomas Aqua, and they are really really quite tight. Ive nver bought motorcycle boots before so given they have to be quite rigid for protection Im not sure what to expect in terms of fit.

Is it normal for boots to be a very tight fit? is it just personal preference?

Cheers

they will be quite a snug fit to begin with, sometimes boot sizes vary and its better to go for A BIGGER SIZE.

Im usally a 9.5 but have had to go for 10-10.5 most times.