This shoe has served as the primary daily shoe for an active boy since purchased 8 months ago.  Meaning a daily shoe, through summer camp, and the school year so far this year.  It has held up amazing in terms of looks and condition.  I've had far more expensive shoes fall apart within a couple months - usually the front of the exterior sole coming unglued - but not this New Balance (not saying this wasn't expensive, just not as expensive as some I've had fall apart relatively quickly).  It is super, super light weight, and is a very comfortable fit for him.  He loves to run and is normally pretty fast, but this shoe just lets him go.  It's pretty much a fabric shoe, which is good because there's no leather to peel which also happens on other shoes.  I will have to replace soon just because its starting to look "tired" - but still in great condition.