These were my everyday boots during the dome. I could dress them up enough for the office. While the leather was robust enough that the little dings and scrapes from averaging four plane rides a week for most of the dome buffed out no problem. Except for specific work activities, these boots were like a "Swiss army" knife, going with any clothing or activity and not seeming out of place.
I did not notice a break-in with this leather as far as comfort. I will say, I personally think it is one of those leathers that looks better and at home worn-in. I would brush these if dirty or at least once a week. During the dome, I conditioned these twice, halfway through and once at the end. There have been no qc issues with the leather throughout the dome.
The sizing was spot on, and the 2030 last feels perfect for my feet. I went on a couple mile walk initially when these boots were brand new, expecting the chance at discomfort/hot spots or blisters, but nothing. The comfort has only increased with wear as they conformed more and more to my feet.
While the construction has held up, and the finishing was great. That stitch count does look pretty! Very minor, but the only knock I noticed was some plastic that had come out of the welt after a bit of wear. I know it was just remnants from the lasting and GYW on these, but you don't want to see something come out of the most expensive boots you have ever bought.
The dainite ridgeway has held up, and I did notice the traction difference vs. their stud sole. I will be curious if I will need to replace the top lift sooner due to my gait and how it wears with the ridges, but no issues through the dome.
These will hold a very special place for me as my first vibergs and my second year dome pair. I have no regrets, although full price vibergs are tough to recommend to anyone that is at all slightly frugal. However, outside the financial aspect, which everyone needs to answer for their situation, the boots are wonderful.