These are amazing shoes and we're buying our third pair. We first chose these shoes because of the reviews of their durability and flexible sole for growing bodies. They did not disappoint and I'm back to purchase again. I bought the first pair for my son's 4th birthday and they've lasted 9 months and could probably make it to his next birthday. They wash beautifully. Soles are removeable. My son and I really like that the tongue is sewn to one side of the shoe, so it always stays in place. For how active my son I couldn't be happier with how they've held up. After 9 months, btw, there are no tears in the side wall and the sole isn't too worn. The footbed is wide and accommodating for adorable fat little kid feet, though my son has them cinched down to make them "tight and super fast".