First off, they are a bit more lustrous than they appear in the ad, which wasn't something I was looking for.  These shoes look almost like patent leather but are not patent leather.  This said, aesthetically they were acceptable out of the box.  The thin synthetic sole is an acceptable alternative to leather and is not a problem for me.<br /><br />Despite taking excellent care of them (shoe trees, not wearing consecutive days, etc.) and them being a perfect fit, these developed particularly unsightly creases on and behind the cap after about five days of use.<br /><br />My biggest problem is that I purchased some Florsheim Jet Oxfords at the same time.  Those are excellent cheap shoes.  Unlike the Broxton, the Jet is obviously made of leather.  They are more supple, comfortable, durable, and attractive.