There are a lot of negative reviews on here about these Sperry Billfish 3. All I can say is that they feel fantastic straight away with my bare feet and the construction is amazing they seem very solid. The side mesh panels don't have leather on the inside as one reviewer noted, they work and help keep things drier and more comfortable when not wearing socks. I suspect some of these reviewers are out of luck but my first impression is that these are quality boat shoes that are miles superior to the Makkan Tom, Bass etc that I have used my entire life. Yes, these are my very first Sperry shoes so maybe the old Sperrys were a lot better than these, but I'm definitely happy and satisfied with my purchase. .