I bought a pair of these in 1999 as work shoes; at the time I worked at a dress shop and was a teaching student. They were wonderful for commuting on the bus and student teaching. But it's been 13 years now and the shoes have seen better days. The inside is completely ruined and they have a slightly funky smell (as 13 yr old shoes often will) but they're still the most comfortable pair of shoes I own. I keep meaning to buy a new pair but never seem to get around to it. I love these shoes. Every few years I get the urge to toss them out (they're old and dirty and ripped up inside) but the moment I try them on again I remember why I haven't before. They are SOOOO comfy!!!Favorite pair of shoes EVER!