Have been wanting a pair of engineers for riding for a long time, and most of the riding boot forums speak very highly of the Chippewas. Mine arrived just as promised (in fact, I had to return the 9's I had ordered first and the replacements arrived two days earlier than promised). Comfortable out of the box, but they do not have much in the way of cushioning. Leather is strong, and the stitching is solid. Have just put a first coat of Pecard's Leather Oil on them and I'm on my way to breaking them in for the fall riding season. Great boots!