These do take a few wears to break in, but then you'll have them for years without wear. I apply leather honey once a year but I'm not not sure I even need to. I'd been looking for cute booties that didn't have a zipper because I hate zipper clicking noises when I walk. These are comfortable to slip on and wear all day. I have a hard time matching the elk color sometimes but they are so well made and comfortable that I don't care.