I always bought the Merrill clogs and liked them and then a year or two ago they started falling apart in six months. Well they are way to expensive to have that happen so I tried these. There is a night and day difference! These are heavey and well built. I wore them all winter and all year so far and there is no sign of wear. I got used to the little hippie rope thing around the shoe and actually have come to like it. If they ever wear out I will buy another pair!