These snowshoes are over 30 yrs old, my mom gave them to me when i was a teenager, thats all I will tell ya. I use them about once every two years. This was the year. The snow is so deep and crusty I didnt feel like trying to walk on top of it and take a chance of sinking up over my knees, so I dug the snowshoes out. Definitely need some neatsfoot oil on the straps, but I managed to get the ball without even falling down, although I did come close a couple of times.... The last few winters we didnt really have the need for them, but this year is good. Maybe I should do it again, and keep my legs in shape..hahaha... I make myself laugh!