Planned obsolescence vs better boot technology

[Dave0317]

I’m getting tired of buying a new pair of Merrel’s every year. They have always been decently serviceable shoes, but they don’t do anything particularly well, but they aren’t horrible either, except in one area, longevity.

Anyone feel like footwear lifespans have gotten significantly worse in recent years?

Any brands bucking this trend in the $150-$200 price range?

 

[brancher147]

Good boots (kenetrek, schnees, crispi etc) are far cheaper in the long run from my experience because they can last multiple years. But a stiff Mt boot is a requirement for me where I hunt so I don’t even look at cheaper boots anymore, maybe there is something cheaper that is decent IDK.

 

[S.Clancy]

Merrel's were single season boots 25 years ago.

I get good life out of my Scarpa and La Sportiva boots.