Every pair of Birkenstocks is made from the highest quality materials. Oiled Leather Upper / Classic Footbed - Suede Lined Has a visible grain and naturally occurring colour irregularities that are not removed in order to preserve the matt surface. The essence of all our shoe models is the original BIRKENSTOCK footbed, which is inspired by the natural imprint of a foot in the sand and feels just like walking barefoot. Its anatomical shape ideally supports the natural walking action of your foot. Your feet, joints and back are protected. At the same time, your foot and leg muscles are exercised, and your health and well-being benefit as a result. Oiled leathers are designed to appear stressed and rustic looking. Leather conditioner will minimise this look. A lot of this occurs when the shoes are in transit as the paper rubs against the shoes and the shoes themselves jostle one another in the box creating scratches or scuffs on the leather. This can be worked out using your fingertips. The leather can appear dryer(lighter) in patches where the oil has dispersed or darker where the oil has settled. When you bend the straps or move the leather the colour will change frequently showing up crackly as the oil disperses. Please note, as every product is made individually, colours may vary.