I would say this is a typical NB shoe. They seem to last me about 9-12 mo. The first thing to go is always the plastic curved piece around the heel. The last 2 pairs I've had have been like that. I would need to replace them aside from that. This shoe is a narrow D size. It is noticeably more narrow than the typical E width. My foot is narrow so it worked out, but when I wear my other E-width NB's to kick around the yard my foot doesn't feel anywhere near as encased as the D-width. All in all this is a good shoe. I run and bike in them on and off road. After 3 months of use they are wearing well and have broken in nicely.
** UPDATE ** Oct 29, 2013 - The tread of the left shoe has separated from the bottom.  The right is not far behind.  In defense of NB this is my primary sneaker for all activities. They seem to have the typical 9-12 mo life. The laces, insole and upper have worn very well. I will will stick with NB for my next pair.