I got my first pair of Danners while over in the Big Litterbox in 91. They're still in service, although I'm on my fifth or sixth set of soles. I'd recommend that you use Danner's own boot dressing on yours, it seems to work the best. I've also used Lincoln wax on mine for those occasions when they really needed to look good. The Airthotics are really a matter of personal taste. I tried the ones that came with both of my pairs of Danners, and now consider them to be a diabolical torture device on the same level as MTV, domestic beer, and most of the current Fox primetime lineup. Do with them what you will, but mine are now cat toys. other than that, your Danners should give you many years of service. My Acadias, which were called the "Tac Team" when i bought them in 91, are still in use on a regular basis today.