>>2336107Looks like a blown rubber to me, which is more comfortable but wears quicker than solid rubber. Think Vibram Christy.
Their solid rubber are quality, but a solid material will be more likely to slide in slick conditions. Vibram Christy are used for roofing, so should be fine with these as well.
I always say take the climate where they are made at. Africa is harsh ground with a lot of abrasion, but isn't particularly steep. If you want these for cold conditions, be ready to use with two pairs of socks and maybe an insole. So upsize.
My biggest complaints with Jim Green's are the default options aren't comfortable stock. Since these are blown rubber, that may be different. Second, they use a plastic midsole, which doesn't have any benefits leather or cork will. It may be why they are less comfortable and need an insole. Their stock insole sucks. Absorbs sweat. Not comfortable. I chucked mine.
The plus side is when they wear or the glue delaminates, it should be easy for a cobbler to add whatever you want to it.
The leather is fine for the price. It's actually good in comparison. A lot of these hipster brands go down to leather that is way too thin. The toebox is wide enough.
It's a good design and easy enough to lace up. 3 or 4 eyelets to studs is ideal for quick and secure fastening. May need to find an alternate lacing method on that style if it causes a pressure point as that will remove circulation.
From the African companies (Courteneys, Schier Shoes (before they sold out), and the Kommando waxi) these have the best overall leather i've seen. I can see the complaints of African shoes, because like most American made boots, they use old technology. They aren't direct attach like most European/Australian companies use. But a comfortable wool, cork, or superfeet foam in those might remedy some of the issues.
Like I said, my only issues are the plastic midsole and possibility of delamination as not all glues are the same and not all glue jobs are done well.
