The grain texture of Shinki Dark Cherry Horsehide is highly variable, and will differ immensely from boot to boot. Every great pair of footwear begins with a good last, and these start from a custom made last designed by John to give a 1950's silhouette to the boot (no toe bump, with a nice taper to the shape). This is the last used in all of his engineer boots, and it's incredibly comfortably from day one. The upper is a Shinki horsehide, tanned in Japan, in a color they call "dark cherry". We picked it because it brings out all the character inherent in horsehide - scars, marks, grain variation and other features that would normally be hidden in the tanning process. Because of this, every single pair will be different and wear in differently. If you're looking for a smooth, consistent finish to your boots, these are not the right choice for you. The rest of the construction details are on par with that fantastic horsehide • Shinki Hikaku horsehide leather upper • John Lofgren 110 last • Exclusive to Standard & Strange • Fully lined with horsehide leather Custom shuttle loomed labels Brass-coated steel buckles Custom John Lofgren lasts USA-made Vibram 705 sole and 700 heel Steel shanks Goodyear storm welted Approx. 12.5" height Made in Japan Built on the John Lofgren 110 Last Choose 0.5 size smaller than your Brannock device size. Choose the same size as your Red Wing Iron Ranger or Alden Barrie last size. Choose 0.5 size bigger than your Viberg 2030 last size. Grail boot