I used the half size binder daily and the spine would begin to rip after a year. Since then I spent a bit more $$ and bought the BETTER Binder. It has lasted me at least 8 years without even the beginning of a rip....and I still use it regularly! I've given this binder to teens to use daily and it holds up with the same durability. I'm slowly upgrading all my other binders to these durable ones. Good investment for long-term especially! Absolutely the best.