Update: I returned the first pair, and was delivered a new pair very quickly. The new pair still feels like the leather might rip in the same place as the last one, but I have re-laced them after softening the laces and it hasn't ripped yet. I'm also being more careful. I thicker lace might be all that's really needed.The leather everywhere else on the shoe is very stiff and gave me a wicked cut in my ankle where it rubs. More wear will likely soften them. They color and pattern are bad ass, and I did get a lot of attention for wearing them!The very first time I put these on, and tried to tie them the lace ripped through the leather.The laces were incredibly stiff, and trying to loosen them enough to put the shoe was a chore. When I tried to tie it, the lace didn't move through the hole, it just tore completely out.I'll be returning them, and I'll update my review if they send me a new pair that don't rip as soon as I put them on.