My son (5) is very active and he really challenged these shoes. When I say active I mean he wears them all day every day for every activity. He loves to climb, ride his bike, play in the dirt, hike with dad etc... They lasted him about 6-7 months but only because he got in the habit of dragging his foot as a break when on his scooter. Oddly enough it was the velcro strap that broke. At that point the bottom of the shoe was worn but seemed to have more life in it! We picked him up a new pair in a slightly larger size and stressed a new breaking technique.These shoes are light weight and he can get them on easily and independently! He loves these shoes so much that he bragged about them to his buddy. Within a few days his buddies parents were asking us for a shoe recommendation. We pointed them toward these and know that they are pleased as well.In terms of the fit, we actually got them in the mall and tried different sizes on. When we reordered we simply moved a size up.We would probably purchase these again but would definitely look at other alternatives given the price tag of $40. All in all we were happy with these and so was our son.