I have never owned a pair of water shoes, but we were going camping in the mountains for two weeks and thought that water shoes would be beneficial.  Ordered these because of the reviews.  When they arrived I wore them around the house and they were REALLY comfortable.  The true test was hiking and walking in the water.  These are NOT good water shoes for nature hikes!  The soles are too thin and walking on pebbles was painful.  They fit great, were comfortable, and held up well, but I couldn't walk on gravel roads with them.  I would recommend these shoes for the pool or beach, but not hardcore outdoor use.  I did wash them on gentle twice since buying them and they held up fine.  The insoles came unglued, but I just shove them back in.