My son has been wearing these since he was a toddler, and he is 9 now. I end up needing a new pair every other summer. They are as durable as a tank, and perfect for outdoor rough bottomed water play. Never had smell problems with them either. I usually buy 1 size up from his current size, and they have *so far* lasted 2 summers each pair. Individual results may vary, though! ;-P