These are great first shoes. I bought them for my son for his first birthday. He has been wearing them for 4 weeks. They are easy to put on and off although becuase of the velcro (which is very handy) I do not agree with any reviews that state that these can be put on with one hand. The velcro always sticks back together as soon as you let go to guide the foot in, as it should). This is not enough to remove a star. I took one star away from my original thought of 5 stars because the seam attaching the upper part to the sole is not waterproof. We went for a walk in a light rain and, without going into any puddles (really!), my son's socks got all wet around the seam area. This was disappointing. He and Mom both love the shoes though. My son loves to sit and watch me put them on him while he helps pull up the velcro strap on the second shoe (getting it ready for Mom) and then he enjoys handing me the second shoe to watch me put it on. I have noticed right away that the tongue of the shoe comes up quite far so very short socks do not work with these shoes as the tongue of the shoe causes a red mark or brushburn on the ankle where it rubs. I was afraid the shoes were not going to work out after the first day but I switched to higher socks and never again did I see the red mark. Never bought any other toddler/infant shoes so I cannot comment on the quality compared to cheaper brands and whether the cost is worth it but my suspicion is that for at least infant shoes (for our beginning walkers) it is worth it. His daycare teachers have all commented on how sturdy they are yet still soft and comfortable. They said most infants wear such flimsy soled infant shoes that they have a hard time walking. Not so with these Pedipeds, they really are the next best thing to bare feet! Highly recommend these shoes, would definitely buy them again.