I purchase a pair of these in 2004 -lrb- it be now 2012 -rrb- and the strap between the toe finally break . I would wear these for about 6-8 month out of the year . the only reason they break today be because I be out in some really sticky and deep mud and the suction from I pull my foot out finish they off . they be very durable as I have be hike with they , and have wear they as rigorously as any shoe . I just purchase a new pair . I remember the break-in period to be about 2 day -lrb- form the leather in between the toe -rrb- and they will float in water and water do not ruin the leather in any way that I can think . best of all these do not leave any black stuff on you foot !!