I have a 7 year old daughter and a 9 year old son. I having been purchasing the Keen Newport H2 Sandals for each of my children every year for almost 6 years now, and I have never had a pair break down or tear apart in any way. They are the best shoes. The price may seem high but they are durable, comfortable, and washable. Both of my children like the style, and ask for a new pair every spring. We live in Arizona so my children wear them almost exclusively year round, and I know that they will outgrow the shoes before they ever need replacing.