So whoever gets them next, theyll get some clean earbuds. Would really recommend these slippers. There is a review on Merrells website stating someone else had the same problem, so it could be a continuing issue with these shoes, as much as I liked them. Likewise, their headsets have been known to peel and degrade over time. Hope this helps, but perhaps a quieter (gel type) ball might be better. Last pair of Beer Cozy original version lasted almost two years - I only replaced them because the sole lost its thickness after heavy use. Im talking every time you take them off your head youll hear them break a little. Hope this steers you in the direction of purchasing these fabulous shoes. se or backpack but for the most part I enjoy it so far, definitely strong rubber to protect my AirPod case * As the name suggests the speaker gives monstrous sound.