There are both the slick calf and the shiny patents. The slick calf is a very polished leather, but not plastic coated like true patent. I got a red slick calf this past fall. During the resort 07 season (recent) a yellow, tan, black, and white patent Ramona showed up in the stores. This patent is different from the "Wet Look" patent robynbenz mentioned. The wet look, looks more luxurious and has some texture. The recent patent is very smooth. I'm with _bella_, this new yellow is reminiscent of a rain slicker. The wet look that robynbenz has is much more my taste.