Many manufacturers have tryed making a slate look alike shingle for those wanting the looks but not the price of traditional quarried slate shingles. IKO had joined the fray with really a half hearted attempt here. Don't get us wrong it looks pretty good and will hold up decent on your house. With all the other options out there if you want shingles but are looking for slate look to the options from Certainteed, Gaf, and Owens Corning as well you will find more variety and features for the money.