How: They are completely black from heel to heel! Smooth leather look. Sits well. Dislikes: Toe box is thicker and more closed than Converse. This made it very difficult to bend. The skin is tough and presses against my toe every time I walk. I really wanted to keep them but had to send them back as they were too much in the way. I'm not sure if it's just this pair or if it's normal. I have never had this problem with my shoes so I was very disappointed.