I already own and love two pairs of Duckfeet lace up boots that get me through the bleak outdoors where I live, but with a move to more office-based work, I have justified this purchase as my “city worker” boots. Somehow the black sole makes them look lighter overall, and with black tights and my office wear I still get to feel a bit more rugged and earthed while attempting urban sophistication. They needed almost no breaking in - just a bandaid to protect the back of the ankle where the leather of the shoe is stiffest - and felt good from first wear, and I feel good wearing them. My old boots are going strong after almost 16 years so averaging the purchase price over the length of wear is another justification, if you need one.