text: For about a week I searched for a less dressy double monk strap.  After looking at a ton of different models, my eye kept coming back to these.  Visually these are exactly what I was looking for and I was thrilled to see that my size (9) were much cheaper than the other sizes.  Unfortunately, the pair I got had heavy creases and obvious signs of wear right out of the box.  I understand that these are &#34;distressed&#34; leather, but mine looked more &#34;used&#34; than &#34;distressed&#34; (I wonder if this is the reason for the lower price).  The pictures on Amazon do not show any wear or creasing, just smooth, new leather, so that is what I expected.  I agree with other reviews that the buckles are very flimsy.  Otherwise the fit and quality was good and the shoes really are beautiful, but I can't get past the used appearance of them.  I really wanted to like these shoes, but I am regrettably sending them back.  If I am contacted and told, &#34;Hey, this was a mistake and we'll send you a better pair&#34;, then I would keep them and update my review, but I doubt that will happen.  If not for the creasing and wear, I would easily give these 5 stars even with the flimsy buckle issue.<br />* Pic 1 no flash, Pic 2 flash.  Pic 1 is more true to actual color