The sound can vary greatly depending on which ear tips you use. But there are two issues. UPDATE 12/28/2020Wore these every day last winter and had no problems, smell, rips, etc. After many washed cars, scrubbed floors, mowed yards and violated child labor laws I decided to give him his gaming system back with this replacement cord. Plenty of space for more 5s & 2. We bought a couple to used as tap mics for dance performances and they pick up everything quite well. Luv these so much I immediately reordered 2 more pairs. The shoes are thin enough at the bottom though that you can still feel the texture of the ground youre walking on, so I would still avoid visibly sharp rocks. So I ordered an 8. Im excited to get a pair that fits - they will be great work shoes!