Redback soles are made with (TPU) thermoplastic polyurethane. The use of this plastic/rubber material in making shoe soles is beneficial in many ways; it is durable, resistant to chemicals, high temperatures, oil and solvents. It also provides plenty of traction and impact absorption making being on your feet all day more comfortable. 

There is however a downside to using this excellent material and that downside is a process of deterioration called hydrolysis. This is why we always recommend keeping your boots dry and in a cool, well ventilated area and that you wear the boots on a regular basis. Hydrolysis occurs when water molecules are trapped within the TPU substrate and are unable to escape. The physical action of walking (compressing and flexing the rubber) helps release the water molecules from the TPU. If water molecules accumulate in the TPU, chemical deterioration is also accelerated. In extremis, this can result in TPU failure in the form of crumbling or splitting. These issues are not generally covered by our warranty hence why we emphasize the importance of regular cleaning, drying and maintenance of your Redback boots.

So to summarize, if you keep you boots clean and dry and you wear them regularly, they will last a really long time. We have many customers returning to us for their second pair of Redback boots after five years or more. We have seen plenty of good examples lasting over 10 years. 

Thank you for your time.

Redback UK