The metal stud detailing on the grey leather is the detail that makes this the most interesting LV Skate colorway. In person the studs catch light in a way that photographs simply cannot capture.

Italian craftsmanship is immediately evident when you hold these. The leather quality, the padded collar construction, the double laces — every detail justifies the price point.

The FW23 Skate update over the original is significant — all-leather upper instead of mesh, the oversized Monogram Flower on the lateral, and the studs make this a completely different proposition. Grey Studded is the one to have.

True to size — ordered my usual 10 and the fit is perfect. Padded collar wraps the ankle in a way you don't expect until you put them on. The bicolor Monogram outsole is immaculate.

Tracking came through same day it shipped. Arrived with the original box and dust bag in perfect new condition. The 1854 heel hit is a quiet detail that announces the House without needing to be loud about it.

Grey leather with silver studs is a combination that works for formal and casual settings in a way most sneakers can't. These have become my most-reached-for pair since they arrived.

The Louis Vuitton vamp branding across the front of the shoe is subtle from a distance but detailed up close — that contrast is what makes LV's approach to branding on the Skate so effective.

The thick double laces are the design element that ties the 90s skate DNA to the luxury construction. They're oversized but purposeful — exactly the balance Pharrell brought to the LV Skate concept.

Made in Italy and you feel it from the first step. The outsole grip is exceptional for a shoe at this luxury tier — these wear as well as they look, which is rare.

The Grey Studded is the most versatile colorway in the FW23 LV Skate lineup. The grey leather ages beautifully and the stud detailing keeps it from reading as a plain grey sneaker. Worth every dollar of the price.