I've worn patent leather shoes for 3 years now in Wisconsin. However, be sure your partners do too! Otherwise, you will stand out among your colleagues. Folks will notice....but many of the players are wearing patent leather shoes as well.
My first pair of Patent Leathers I purchased were the Converse "Running Ref" model, (still have and rotate)...but have switched to the brand that The Officials Choice manufactures and sells online.
http://www.theofficialschoice.com
I've worn them through AAU ball this summer and found them really comfortable. My two other partners purchased them as well and like them too! They are a bit pricy ($75) compared to other models....but, consider your feet as what keeps us going! Make your decision based on works best for you!
When we catch some comments about our shoes....we just say "we have a wedding to go to after the game."
Good luck....enjoy your season!
wl
[Edited by imaref on Nov 5th, 2004 at 02:55 PM]