I received a pair of Clarks Desert boots in my freshman year of highschool and I still wear the exact pair almost everyday. To me this is mind boggling. They have lasted 5 years and still up to date with my style. Not only that but I have never had to do any repairs whatsoever. Its wild how durable the gum soles are. It makes me wonder why use anything else. Rubber would have work through years ago. Also they have aged so incredibly. I love companies who have an appreciation for well made products that look better with age.