I bought my first pair of Oboz when the store didn't have the Merrells I usually bought in my size. Loved them from the start. Fit comfortably, wore well and were waterproof. Unfortunately, I surprised a skunk while I was wearing them and, coincidentally, just about when it was time to replace the Merrells. I bought a pair of each and alternated days wearing them until Merrells were due for replacement. The Oboz were still solid and lasted almost another 3 months. I replaced the Merrells with Oboz and haven't looked back since.