I bought these after a disappointing experience with Timberland Mt. Washington's. I was looking for something waterproof and could be worn in a business casual environment. As with all Ecco footwear, ( this is my 4th pair) they are comfortable out of the box. No break in required. They are a low profile, so they look great with jeans or other casual pants. They material is a nubuck that is  slightly distressed. They scuff fairly easily, but I plan on using nubuck oil to alleviate the scuffing. Yes, Ecco's are expensive, but are worth it in my opinion.