When I started flying the school rented DCs but I found that the headband digs into the scalp and the earcups pinch eyeglass frames into your head, and I could not tolerate them for more than an hour. I bought a Peltor 7004 and have had no problems, even on my x-country (3.3 hours flight time in a 4-hour period). I've owned them for 2 1/2 years now and they're still fine, so I wouldn't worry too much about their "flimsy" appearance. IMHO the Peltor line provide excellent comfort and value for the money.