First off, I've been a New Balance fan for years, but I've almost always picked up the cheap options at discount stores. They weren't bad and seemed to last longer and were more comfortable than similar Nikes, Adidas etc. However after reading a bit about the brand I found out that they make up about 25% (I think?) of their shoes in the US . (Mostly around the Boston area, I guess.) In any case, shoes made in the US are expected to be pretty expensive, but not just because they're made here. As a rule, they are made of higher quality materials. In any case, the 993s (and their predecessors) are classics. I've known that for a long time. I always wanted a little before I found out about the US difference. Eventually, after several cheaper pairs, I broke down and ordered these. I've had them for about six months and haven't taken them off. I wear them around the house, they are so comfortable! They still look almost new. I'm a fan for life, I don't care how much they cost.