I think this is due to the membrane getting worn or punctured. Hiking boots now almost all have a goretex membrane, and they seem to last maybe one or two seas

I think this is due to the membrane getting worn or punctured. Hiking boots now almost all have a goretex membrane, and they seem to last maybe one or two seasons of regular use before they leak. The leather can last many years with care, and the sole can be replaced, but once the goretex is shot you only have whatever water proofing you can apply to the leather itself.