I have two pair of Meindl Alaksans that I switch off for weather reasons. The first pair purchased 9 years ago - 3 Alaskan trips - no failures even with plenty of stream crossings.
I can only surmise that Meindl changed their manufacturing practices and materials - which isn't unusual.
We all know that boots are very high on the list of essential items. They are money well spent and taken care of will last many years.

My home is the "sanctuary residence" for my firearms.