I have two pairs of Rieker boots which I absolutely love, until that is, my left foot was getting wet - a split in the sole. This happened in both pairs of boots. Because the uppers were perfect I took them to a cobbler who told me the shank (metal piece which runs under the sole) was too long and wasn't needed anyway! I paid to have both pairs repaired at a cost of £24. However, I was told that this could happen again. I am very disappointed as I have always purchased Rieker but at a cost of £80 new I will look elsewhere for suitable boots in the future. Compensation would be good! .