text: This shoe is very well made & sturdy.  It is not so hard that it will take a long time to break in but it is a sturdy leather/design.  I have average width feet & a small bunion on one foot.  I usually wear a 7.5/8M - 38EU shoe.  I ordered this in 8.5M because Rockport tend to run a bit narrow & I need that extra bit for the bunion foot.  These fit perfectly once I loosened the laces.  They are not as pointy toed as many oxfords are.  But I wouldn't call it a rounded toe either.  If you need  just a little extra toe room, this may work.<br /><br />They have a good insole (not removable) with extra padding at the heel & just feel good overall.  The sole is a good heavy duty rubber - it looks like it will wear very well.<br /><br />The black leather is kind of suede looking - it's not a smooth finish.  Looks kind of &#34;tough&#34; & cool - I like it, it's different without being too much.