I started buying Avia after I noticed that they outlasted several other brands during Jumpstyle, Dnb, and Rebolation style dance. These styles grind the bottoms off most shoes in about 30 days or less, the Avia brand sneakers were built well from better material and outlasted the others. Ive included a photo of a 90 day dance test using Avia, with other brands ground through the heals in less than 6 weeks (photo of competing brand included) Based on use, I would recommend Avia as a good solid shoe for the price. There is no point in spending $300 for another brand when they will end up detroyed afte 1 night of Dnb style dance. Just because someoe famous endorses a pair of shoes, doesnt mean they will last. I have purchased half a dozen pairs made by Avia, I destroy them because that is what I do, but I also recommend them as an inexpensive but durable product