We haven?t actually carried anything on top of the racks yet but they seem sturdy. We had good weather so I cant attest to the water proofing, but the carrier seemed well made and sturdy. Maybe they will be more steady when the stockings are more full. Before I place this order, I saw similar slippers in DSW, they are so expensive, so I did not buy it. The cord itself is nice. Some did not seem very stable. Happy to see the show back for season 7. These sandals helped provide some relief. * Comfortable to use even for long periods of time. Perfect for the home made mitre saw station that I built as part of the dust collection system for it.