I own Ardennes, chevre, togo, clemence and box. Ardennes is one of my favorite leathers. My Ardennes is a 35 black Birkin w/ GH. It is gorgeous- hides wear very well, keeps its color/sheen, and holds its shape very well. I am very careless with my bags (some would call it abusive) and I have two little boys that constantly "bend" the front of my bags to search of snacks in my bags. My "younger" togos and clemences have long started to flop over in the front panel where my kids bend them, but the Ardennes still holds its shape and looks great. It's a textured leather that has structure without being stiff. The look is polished but not formal (as box can be sometimes). I don't think it's any heavier than my togo and clemence Birkins. If H still made this leather, I would definitely get another one.