I have a pair of 30+ year old Vasque Sundowners. Purchased before my disdain for goretex in footwear. Uppers in great condition. Soles show their age. Until last year, never worn except for hiking and backpacking. Now for wet or muddy yard service. The sole came loose from the heel on the right boot. I knew it was going to eventually happen. They aren't stitched together. It was all glue. Grateful it didn't happen on the trail. Even though I was aware of the construction, once I was re-cementing them together, I got a much better idea of how they were made. The glue was perfectly applied. Not one spot of glue on either boot up into the leather. Always waterproof, so not a micrometer missed complete application. The longer I looked at the construction, the more baffled and impressed I was. I'd love to see a video of these boots being made. They were handmade. To be so precise with everything is nuts. I know my work will not result in them being waterproof. Of course, I tried to do a great job. I'm not unsatisfied with my work, but my money is on them now leaking. I hope I'm wrong.
Time to start shopping for a littleway or goodyear/Norwegian welted boot with no goretex. They're sort of like dinosaurs at this point. Everyone wants goretex and doesn't care if they can be resoled. If anyone has ideas, let me know. I'm aware of some models and makers, like Limmer and White's Centennial Hikers.