Boot lifespan? Danner Pronghorns not holding up

[Zootownelk]

best pair of boots I had was an old pair of Rocky's- lasted about 15 years of A LOT of upland bird miles and several seasons of western elk/deer hunting. Incredible. I've now had a pair of Schnee's Beartooths for 3 years. Really good until this year when several holes have appeared. Not sure if this is 'normal' or if they're not up to standard. I treat them at least a couple times a year, but maybe I need to baby them more? Looking for new boots now.

 

[David58]

Danner used to be among the best.

Went to their store in Portland a few years back, bought some socks (had a pair of their boots aready).

A man came in, his boots had failed at the toes. They refused any refund because he admitted to wearing them without socks. I was listening carefully due to the disrespect shown to this man from the second he placed the boots on the counter.

Now, I wear socks, and English is my first language, but the guy behind the counter was an ass.

I will never buy another Danner product again.

David
NM

I should add that I don't have "hunting" boots. I figure my Vasque Breeze hikers work great for hiking under a pack in NM, so they likely work well for hunting. And they do. This is my second pair, thankfully as they have gone through year-to-year cosmetic changes they have held to the same last and stiff insole. Most comfortable shoes I own, actually.

David
NM

 

[Redmt]

How much mileage do you get out of a pair of boots?

I bought a pair of Danner Pronghorns that blew apart in under a year which was replaced under warranty with the exact same pair. Pair number 2 has two hunting seasons under it's belt, including a western hunt which was wrapped up in 3 days, and 2 seasons of late season pheasant hunting... not more than 10 days a season. I probably walk 5-10 miles on a full upland day (less in the elk hills). So I probably have 25 days of walking in these boots (msrp $270), and they blew apart in the exact same spots, in under 250 miles. The stitching failed and they have gaping holes on the big toe side next to the eyelets. I'm frustrated, they are out of warranty. Should I be? How long should a pair of boots last? What do you use that is tough, waterproof and comfortable that lasts longer?

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Danner went down the shitter when Lacrosse bought them out. I have worn Danner Lights 2's for years. They were the most comfortable boots ever and lasted years until Lacrosse took them over. It's another great American company sent to China. I switched to Meindl. They are ok but not great. I'll try the Kenetreks next.