It seems like a waste to put such lovely leather on a lesser quality bottom. I decided to buy a pair as a gift for my Mom. It also smells quite strongly and I am not sure when or if they smell will go down in any reasonable amount of time. That way I wouldnt have been so shocked by the experience of them not working for me. Thank you for this ingenious rod. I would have expected them to stay comfortable and last longer than three months for $28 so based on my experience, I can?t recommend buying these slippers. Pas vu une mite et tant mieux ! Its full of anticipation. The product came in two separate pieces and I wasn?t able to open the top fully. Snatched!