This was my first Blkbrd purchase and what I liked was that I was able to change the original material which was leather to a water resistant Navy Suede for a pretty good upgrade price. I'm a U.S. 11 U.K.10 EU 44 and I had to go up in size to a U.K. 11 EU 45 so I would definitely recommend sizing up when you order but make sure you contact Blkbrd customer service and discuss sizing so that they can recommend what might work best for you. The shoes once you get a order confirmation will most likely be delivered to you about 3 weeks after you order which for me was FAST because I'm in the shoe industry and I understand what goes into making a customized shoe so for me even if it took longer than 3 weeks I wouldn't mind at all. The color, finishing, and workmanship of the shoe is excellent. I mentioned it but I will say it again what's GREAT about Blkbrd you can upgrade your leather for a very decent price so if you try their leather shoes and feel you want a better quality leather in the future they offer QUALITY upgrades at very good price offerings. I definitely will be coming back for other colors in this same water resistant suede because of the richness of the colors and Plum suede is definitely on my radar for my next purchase. The only gripe I have is shipping cost because I ordered 2 pairs and though they shipped both pairs in one carton they still charged about $25 PER PAIR to the U.S. I figure if both pairs are in one carton one shipping charge should be enough so for 2 pairs I paid about $50. I only mention this because I order from another brand in India and shipping is FREE and I also order customized shoes from Shanghai and shipping is also FREE. Overall I would definitely recommend Blkbrd shoemakers to anyone but again make sure you communicate with them a couple times to get your size right which is one of the most important things when it comes to purchasing customized shoes. I am glad that I sized up to a EU 45 so now I know my size for future purchase.
