Shoes are adequately padded, and (I think) pass for genuine leather, though they are synthetic. They came laced with the big black ribbon, but leather laces were included in the box, which I prefer. Looking forward to wearing them with long winter skirts. I've always loved the menswear look (late 80s, sniff) and these shoes did not disappoint. Great price too. Interesting that Great Offer Stock was the only retailer that had my size in stock.