Rough Break-In
"This is my 5th boot from GS, and I've also had several Oxfords as well. By far this is the worst break-in period of any of them. The fit is perfect, construction is clearly robust, so that leaves the leather itself as the culprit. My other GS footwear are Calf or CXL with one Tan Essex. I did nothing special with these boots upon receiving them, just laced them up and started walking around. The crease on both feet were on the same spot, but the right boot crease was digging into the top of my foot painfully with every single step taken. This has lessened over time, but it reminded me of some Meermin products I've bought in the past, and that's not a good thing. All of my other GS products had no such painful break-in. Embossed Calf like this or Country Calf doesn't crease like normal leather, it is closer to rolls like shell. I believe this is what's causing me so much pain. Each day of wear lessens the pain, so by 20 or 30 wears I'm sure it will be fine, but it's disappointing that I have to endure this. Overall I would not recommend this boot unless you don't mind a prolonged break-in process that might include some serious discomfort. I will continue to buy GS boots and shoes."