I have used heel plates/protectors like this for many years. They make the heels on men's boots and dress shoes last a lot longer. Nothing looks worse than nice boots or shoes with worn heels. I have tried several different brands of these plates/protectors but I prefer the ones that last the longest time. The softer plastic ones did not last long enough for me.For me the Traveler brand Step heel plates (see photo-size 5-which are about 2-1/8" wide) work the best and last the longest. The Traveler brand Step heel plates are the harder plastic style.