Hydrolysis is a normal material aging process that occurs in all footwear with a cushioned PU midsole. This process is independent of the manufacturer. It also occurs in motor vehicles, tyres, ski boots or helmets. It does not represent lower quality or even a quality issue in materials or workmanship. Hydrolysis is an ageing process which occurs over a number of years but which can be accelerated by certain factors. Damp conditions are specific catalysts for hydrolysis as they increase the amount of contact the PU has with water molecules. Hydrolysis is therefor more likely to occur in boots which are worn in wet conditions without being cleaned afterwards.
Even if wading boots are cleaned after use, the effects of hydrolysis will at some point in time effect the glues used during the manufacturing of the boots. However, one of the most common factors accelerating hydrolysis in wading boots is actually lack of use. By leaving your wading boots at the back of a dark cupboard or in your garage for too long without using them, you’re increasing their exposure to moisture absorption and consequently hydrolysis.