The hikers Ive had that are leather (timberlands) seem to last longer (waterproof wise). Ive had merrils, columbia, keen, and others. My kids have gone through several pairs of less expensive hi-tec hiking boots and Ive been really impressed with how tough they are. The altitude line is what they both have now, but the Bandera and skamania lines also held up great. I may even go the hi-tec altitude route for my next pair.