“Design flaw”

“Bought a pair of these for my wife who prefers light hiking boots. She hiked in them twice before the sole/rand began separating from the softshell. Called Montrail and they admitted they'd had a lot of trouble with the rand/shell bond on this model. Montrail exchanged these (no problem) for a pair of the new Cirrus GTX and they're great. She says they're one of the best she's worn, they're just as light and feature the same kind of softshell exterior. They're also as sturdy as the Stratos (which was one of their major selling points) and the sole/rand has stayed bonded to the shell. The only difference is that Montrail's new line of women's boots don't feature GTX XCR. The new Hardrock boot is designed in the same vein. The softshell boot is a great idea and Montrail usually makes quality products- the Stratos didn't work, but their modifications have greatly improved the quality of their new product line. Anyway, if you're looking for a softshell boot don't buy the Stratos and get the Cirrus or the Hardrock instead!”