These cables are not perfect but very well made considering they cost $4 each. The cable itself is quite flexible and the woven outer layer feels durable. The USB-C end feels stiff when I insert it, like I have to push harder than other cables. The Lightning end is fine. The plastic strain relief near the connectors probably isn't very useful as it's very stiff. This simply means that if the cable fails due to a bend, it will fail at the junction of the cable with the strain relief, not at the junction of the cable and connector.