Leaderboard

I did not give any specifications to the placement of the eyelets, but it didn't appear to affect the wrap it has around my foot. The blacksteel steps were added at no cost (Thanks Rob); though it would've been cool to get a pair of those new step holders too. I asked for additional copper eyelets as I've ran into problems with the normal eyelets falling out in other skates. I also changed the laces to yellow waxed graf laces (a la Ovi) as well as pull out the tongue as I thought it to be installed too deep inside the toe box. Overall impressed with the total package. While Mako IIs feel like sneakers, these feel like home xmas slippers on your feet (with the powerfoot insole) to erase any negative space.

Is it like those self-checkout lines at Target?

I have had several conversions done and have never plugged the holes or had issues with that. You're more likely to have wet spots from where people fall or if people spill drinks on the bench. Unless you're a very heavy sweater I highly doubt you'll have issues with a few old rivet holes.