The downsides are the price, although their durability makes it worthwhile. Also, they’re stickier than rubber so most come with RainX type wipes to make the glass more slick. Just repeat treatment when you notice them sticking again (visible as skipping when they change direction).

Silicone wiper blades negate all these problems. I’ve had a pair through three Flagstaff summers (high elevation, high UV) and two winters (150 inches of snow this season). I’ve parked in direct sun and ripped them off frozen windshields and they’re still like new.

Silicone not silicon. Big difference.