I think they got rid of the pine in the American which makes the scent different and weaker. Ive had several pairs of Croc Athens in the past and never noticed anything coming apart, but maybe they did not a stripe that could peel off either. They struck hardwood from a distance of about 30 inches and the other arm broke. The bendy wire that wraps around your ear is very hard to keep in one shape, so expect to fiddle with that, a lot. So far Im quite happy with my new Koseton earbuds so far. Small and light. To say it is so inexpensive, it is very strong. it has solved the messy pile of shoes in the hallway problem! This toy is absolutely amazing! I figured I couldnt possibly be the only person to think that these shoes were unfathomably uncomfortable.