"So these are a bit hard to lace up as the "out of the box" lacing has it snug, and there are two color options of laces which is nice, but after a day of breaking them in you'll love them. Ted Baker is amazing, and they are built well and look better. The vinyl and patent leather is hard at first so wear socks that go beyond the ankle to avoid rubbing. I was impressed that DSW had such stylish stuff."