Unfortunately, after a month, the smell appeared. We have never had a problem with the smell of leather shoes. I'm afraid it was leather.

I bought these for my almost 8 year old son who has rough shoes. Looks like they will hold up to some wear and tear. They appear sturdy and well made. The sole is pretty thick. Hopefully they last a while (or until he outgrows them).

I bought them for school - in October the shoes fell apart. The fabric in the toe area is separate from the sole of the shoe.

EDIT - These shoes have not even been worn for 6 months! The velcro at the top has ripped off which is why they look so dirty and ugly. I have changed my rating from 5 stars to 1 star. VERY expensive for a 6 month old or younger. My son has wide feet and finding shoes for him is ALWAYS HARD! Sometimes wide shoes don't suit him! Glad these fit! Difficult to find as we only look for pure materials. These are nice, clean and wide. Thanks Merrell for making them! Just bought it, so can't say much…

These are great shoes that fit well overall. The only complaint I have had with two pairs for my son is that the insole wears out very quickly. The fabric and lining wear out completely in the heel area, exposing the heel. I've bought at least a dozen Merrills over the years and have never had an experience like this. I've never had children's performances that have worn out inside in 2-3 months if there was still a significant amount of time outside. This problem can be partially solved by…

Bought these blue/grey/green size 10 for young children and they fit well. Lasts longer than his foot was that size when my son was 3 1/2 years old. Now he is 5 years old, he is incredibly active and starts to run 5 km. However, they are very durable, supportive and excellent. We now have a size 12 and a third pair of Merrell's Only because it keeps growing! I don't see the signs of daily "wear and tear" that I've seen with less durable shoes that show scuffs if you look at them for too long…