When I received them they were probably one of the most comfortable shoes I have ever bought. After 5 months one of the eyelets tore the skin because a metal eyelet was missing. After that, it was almost impossible to tie them. I've even unzipped and relaced, skipping this eyelet and the sister eyelet on the opposite side. It was better but not great. I had never bought New Balance shoes until my doctor recommended them to me due to the fact that I am diabetic. I would like my budget to allow me to buy a new pair of shoes every 5 months, but unfortunately that's not the case.