after reading many reviews about how the shoe is uncomfortable, the shoe doesn't last long etc... my daughter wanted them and had been asking for a year, so they will be a christmas present.  I look at this shoes like my "going out" shoes, they are NOT for everyday long wear.  a few hours of play time in these is enough.  I purchased with that understanding and did not pay full price - it's not a shoe i'd spend $40 or $50 like they are at the department stores.