text: VERY stiff, and seem cheaply made for Rockports. As with other reviews, I agree that their quality has fallen off greatly. Might be an effort to keep prices down on their part, but I don't know. They are very stiff, glue showing in spots, dull in sheen, and have too many eyelets (laces). Makes them look &#34;clunky&#34;. I have loved Rockport Brand through the years, I hope this isn't a trend. Pass on these. Amazon, as usual, accepted the return graciously.