I live in Massachusetts and use them mostly for hiking and for housework (lawn mowing etc) when it's worth it. It was basically what I expected. These are the glorified socks with no support. They have a nice profile and minimalist feel when hiking. They get wet very easily (grass jams, rain of course, etc.). I've had the shoes for about 7 months and have worn them late winter and now early fall. I assure you they will not last. My wife and I both have them and both have the sole separated from the "shoe/sock" part. I wasn't particularly strict with them. I assume you'll get the same result using them in the gym if you do cardio as well, but I don't know. Yes, they're only $30, but I'll be lucky if I live in them for a year and don't have to wear them or anything. Better with a couple of Merrells or Xeros.