These shoes are SO much nicer looking in person than in the picture. If you look at a pic of them in a lighter color, you can see the details better. However, the dark brown (there's also a light brown available) is a great color. There's really nothing it won't go with. It's almost dark enough to pass for black, and the "scuffing" (not really scuffing, but I think that look is the new style) IS black. I think these shoes are made every bit as well as men's shoes, the way shoes used to be made. They are quality all over: the leather, the dye, the sole, the heel, the fact that they come with ribbon laces and regular laces, not to mention that they actually are adjustable with the laces, unlike many of the new oxford styles that have FAKE laces and are not adjustable at all. Makes me mad because I have very narrow, flexible feet, and I need to be able to tie the laces really tightly. The insole is somewhat cushy, not much, but enough to be comfortable. Speaking of comfort, these shoes are so comfortable for me, and that's saying a lot because my feet are problem feet. I normally wear a 9, but I tried both the 9 and the 9.5, and I liked the room in the 9.5 better. I would say they run pretty true to size, but if you like your toes to have plenty of room, consider sizing up one-half size. I really, really love these shoes, and I'm so glad that Sebago, who's always been known for quality shoes, has decided to branch out a little. I'm even considering getting them in other colors. I think these shoes will last a lifetime if cared for in the old-fashioned way: a little polish and conditioner and brushing. They'll look new for years. I can't recommend them highly enough!