I bought three pairs of water shoes for my husband, child and nephew. All shoes are great. However, a pair with elastic is much easier to put on than without. The quality of the shoes is durable. The soles are thick, which is good for a rocky river or lake. My nephew wears a size 4.5 and I bought a size 5. They fit him perfectly. I'm glad this shoe didn't come in a Β½ size.