since i read the review for these boots before i purchased them, it was not going to be a surprise if and when the surface color began to wear away- which it is beginning to. so what. these are the comfiest best fitting docs i own- made in the uk, and i paid 30 bucks for them. come on- real leather docs for that price, why would i complain? hence- that's why the 4 stars not five. and i love when my boots show wear. if you want to look like you rock pristine footwear, stop trying to dress punk...