I am very happy with these trainers. The leather is exceptionally soft and has a slight sheen. the shoes are true to size and are so comfortable that I forgot I had them on when I was walking around. Although they come with brown leather laces, the box they are shipped in includes white laces in a small baggie, in case you want to change out the laces. The interior is lined in cotton and the soles are very thick and have excellent traction.