Better write-up later, but quick FYI:
The new grasshoppers feel amazing. Comfier than the first version, and have extra lace loop at the top (!) The grey leather feels a little softer, too. And the breathing holes at the toes, and mesh on tongue, likely will let them breathe a little better.
Not sure I’m going to be able to skate these. They’re really nice 
*oh. And it’s good to see Bam is on the right Path these days. 
To add: this suede is really nice. It’s soft and has that color change when you run it one way and then the other. I know the retail price is $119, but I can’t find any flaws in craftsmanship and it really seems like you get your money’s worth.
The strap eyelet is a nice touch and improvement. It’s not metal like I thought it was, but if they had to charge an extra $5-$10 for something like that, then who cares… hard plastic is just fine.
The shoe overall seems to hug the foot better than version 1. they are better fit and look that way, too. Still roomy thanks to wide sole, but better fit on the top.
Also, I’m not going to cut these in half, but I really wonder if the midsole is any different from version 1, because it feels… like I don’t know, like a good quality pair of midsole construction. I don’t know how to describe it. I don’t feel that pink lasting board over the mid and heel area (see pics above), so I wonder if it’s no longer eggshell, and has more board feel. Lemme go step on real quick and I’ll report back*
(*no, it has the same board feel as old pair, but I didn’t pop anything to test impact protection. I definitely don't feel the pink insert… maybe the “lasting board” or whatever runs the whole length, or it just doesn’t have it anymore. No idea, and I’m not cutting to find out, ha.)
Around the heel feels softer and it doesn’t push on my ankle as much as the first versions = more comfort.
Anyways just sharing that these are better than the first version. I’m not kidding I may not skate these at all they’re that nice.
(Maybe……………

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