It has to be about money. New manufacturer, new manufacturing process. They seem well made but I couldnt even get my foot into the toe box. My garage is only so big and I cant put every workout machine in it for my workout regiment. Trial and error is your best bet. I loved the shade of brown of the shoe. The underside of the headband is lined with a soft rubbery cushion which is similar to the leather like soft padding over the actual ear cups. He uses them for his walks and to listen to his music when working in the basement. Doesn?t come with a belt but wouldn?t be hard to add one. I wear these pretty much daily while at work and then the gym right after.