For some of the questions above, I wear sz 8.5 Rugged Classics with jeans from roughly 7.5" hem (NS) to 8.7" hem (SC's), and they don't look awkward, at all. Also, the hickory, which is what I have, will have a deeper, richer, more saturated, but somewhat more uniform shade if treated with Red Wing Boot Oil. Highly recommended. I prefer them laced with Indy-type laces. Looks awesome. (I know Indy-envy, but I'm looking to get those before the year ends. 











