These are NOT the standard fitflop sandals I have been buying for years. I am concerned and hope that this is not the new standard to which fitflop is making their sandals now. I have numerous pairs but none of them have the thong WRAPPED IN PAPER AND CLEAR PLASTIC TAPE as these are. Yes, I attempted to peel the clear tape off so it wouldnt bother my feet, but what should I find underneath but layers of black PAPER wrapping around the thong. Wow. And these are supposed to last me how long exactly? I am going to keep them as an (expensive) experiment to see how long they do last. Whoever at fitflop had the genius idea to construct footwear out of paper and clear plastic tape should be fired. So disappointing, when I expect these sandals to last multiple seasons.