This shoe is awesome and the only running shoe my toddler will wear without complaining. We received a smaller size as hand-me-downs as the first running shoe my toddler wore - and because of how structured it was, she could wear it comfortably and safely, even when it was technically a few sizes big. The first pair held up for 2 years. When my toddler continuously rejected the more affordable brands - even the ones with cute princess prints, I finally caved and ordered this shoe - again, a size or two up. We have a happy toddler again - the shoe is easy for her to take off and put on herself. We've also found it's holding up amazing even though we've had to run it through the wash after potty-training accidents have soaked the shoe. I have a feeling we'll be ASICS fans in this house indefinitely. If you have a picky toddler - don't waste your money or time on the cheap brands! This shoe is worth the investment.