I don't usually write reviews, but I felt that these shoes deserved a good one. They are way way better than Converse in my opinion: Better construction, more durable, slightly heavier and they don't fall apart. One of the highlights of their construction is the fact that the point where the rubber trim strip meets isn't in the heel of the shoe like converse, but rather on the inner side of the shoe. I love this because I can't tell you how many times the rubber strip meeting points come apart because of inevitable scuffing of my heel in All Stars. Bottom line: These are classic shoes that deserve the revival they have received thanks to New Balance and I'm sure they will be around for a long time.