These have been great for my 21 month old.  They are dressy enough to wear with her dresses, but comfortable enough for her to run around in.  I try not to let her clothes limit her ability to play so these have been perfect for parties and other days when we want to be dressed up, but still climb, jump and run.  I haven't had problems with them falling apart like other reviewers (maybe the quality is inconsistent?) but I do agree they are tough to clean - though for us it is worth it.  I'm about to buy a second pair, so that says something about them right?