Given the old tech and basic insole I didn't expect them to be that comfortable but they are very comfortable to lug around sneakers. I didn't expect them to last long as they are quite light but they lasted over a year which is above average for me. Appearance is subjective - I like the clean retro look of the standard white stripe with a side blue stripe. Smooth leather is easier to care for than nylon. The sole is made of high quality rubber, creaks when hooked. I wear the Nike Vapor to tennis, but I also play the Continental 80 because they fit my feet really well. They don't have much lateral support so I wouldn't recommend them for tennis (I ended up snapping my toe on court).