I have owned cheap walmart work boots, military issue infantry boots, nice cowboy boots, etc all different types, these are my favorite boots I have ever owned. I will buy another pair soon in case they stop making them. I bought them for the composite toe and the side zip feature. The side zip is awesome. I haven't laced them since I bought them. Just step in, zipper, and go! Usually I throw some gel pad inserts in all my boots and these did not need them. They are very soft and cushioning as they are. I put them in anyway and I feel like I'm on a moon bounce. I really can't say how much I love these boots. I did notice I got a few small cuts in the soft rubbery sides that is like a middle layer between the boot and the sole, due to it being very soft, but they just seem to be cosmetic at this point. Otherwise these are very durable and the sole isn't showing any wear yet and I have used them on quite a few action shoot and range excursions. I find myself wearing them all the time, wishing I could wear them to work. I can't wait to have them for Knob Creek. My feet won't hurt nearly as much after a day walking around.