I love these shoes.  They are very light-weight.  I am on my feet in a factory setting 8-12 hours per day.  Vibram soles are awesome and rarely wear out before the uppers.  That said, I have never had a pair of Merrell hiking shoes wear out within a 12 month period.  Like I said, I work in a large factory setting on concrete, up and down ladders, on my knees, and walking on abrasive surfaces.  They are awesome.