Probably our 6th pair.  I have been buying these for my little boy since he was 2-3 years old. Hes 5 They are great shoes but in 6 months time the front of the shoes always breaks open in the same spot.  Happens with EVERY pair of the same merrell shoe. Eventually his little toes are completely exposed.  So Im buying a new pair today.  They are his favorite... they are not cheap but would be so much better if the front toe area was reinforced.  I noticed that other parents are experiencing the same.  We are a family that loves Merrells but this kid version always breaks apart.  Little boys are rougher on shoes but they should redesign it with that in mind to improve brand product experience.