I've searched high and love for a shoe to fit my son's wide width and high arch. He's been wearing Stride Rite since he started walking. I've tried cheaper shoes or some from our local department store and they never fit right or hold up. I've thrown his Stride Rite shoes in the washer countless times and they come out looking great. I've never had problems with them wearing out or falling apart like others. For $30, this is a great buy. One thing to note is that these laces are elastisized. No tying required, but a little harder for little ones get on.