text: I purchased this boot in Slate in my usual size 8. I knew that they would be a little too narrow since I have one foot that is a little wider than the other. I'm waiting to see how much they break before determining if the one boot has to be stretched by the cobbler. The rest of the fit is great, and I can see these being extremely comfortable once broken in.<br />The color is beautiful: a cool-toned mottled taupe-gray, the leather is supple, and I have no doubt that these are the genuine article. That being said, I don't think they're the pick of the litter, either. The right boot has a sloppy overcut edge on the inside of the sole; it's barely noticeable if you're looking at the boot from farther away than eye-level. Also, the front sole of my pair is most definitely hard leather, not rubber like the description says and like the pictures SEEM to show. The back of the heel is indeed rubber, and it slips and slides all over the place! While test-driving these around the house I nearly went down twice on the hardwood floor. These are definitely going to the cobbler for some grip-ums, and for a protective coating/sole so I don't ruin the bottoms during the impending New England Winter.<br />I purchased these on sale, so am willing to live with the flaws. The cost to weatherproof and possibly stretch them is pretty nominal compared to what I saved. This is my first pair of Fryes, and while they may not be a perfect example of the brand I am far from disappointed!