I've had about 10 pairs of Rocky's all makes and models and have never had any soles fall apart. Only four of the 10 pairs I liked though. For me all but one pair has leaked. I still have my original Bear claws from '96 and the soles are fine. I never had any problems with the soles just the gore tex. I have been leaning away from them because even though they are cheaper if they aren't waterproof they are much good.