Tongue is sticky from the finish coming off of the neoprene like always happens with these cross country boots. We take lots of pictures so that you can see exactly what you get. Remember that everybody's screen shows different details and colors. Your device's screen may not show the true colors in the pictures. We are not experts on vintage or authenticity. We do not accept responsibility for any false claims of vintage or authenticity. For this reason we offer many photos for you to judge on your own.