These are really cute and the soles are excellent. Appear to have great traction and are actually flexible. I've tried about 8 different pairs for my 3 1/2 year old daughter and all of the soles are too slick and not flexible. We live in a ski town so we need something she can actually use. I'm getting these for quick trips. They are not a good design for playing in the snow but will be great for in and out of the car for preschool, errands, etc. The are not waterproof so I will treat them.These are wonderful and super comfey my lil bear, Journey love them, and this is one of the few companies that offer non toxic shoes, at a decent price, the fact that these shoes contain no chemicals linked to cancer nervous system, or digestive disorders makes it worth the little more price difference!!!! love them, and they are in such good shape even after long term wear we will be using them for lil sister bear, Novabelle, when she is big enough for them, also other mamas ask where we scored them so it seems that they are attractive inherently!!!!!!!!!