This is a beautiful, well made shoe. Exactly what I expect from MBT. No breaking in period needed if you are already used to wearing an MBT shoe. The shoe is a nice, professional low shine black leather shoe. I received many compliments on this shoe. It gets noticed from peers in a company that requires black leather. It is very comfortable. I can stand and walk for my 12 hour shift and still bounce out at quitting time. I have a wide foot and always order my MBT's a half size larger.